Shillong, Mar 22: Under its Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP) project, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) distributed turmeric washers and slicer machines, 15 each, among farmers from different districts.
The beneficiaries, including members of self-help groups (SHGs) and cooperative societies, hailed from Ri-Bhoi, East and West Jaintia Hills, South West Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, and East Khasi Hills, according a statement of ICAR Research Complex NEH Region, Umiam.
The pedal-operated and gender-friendly machines are aimed at reducing drudgery and improving post-harvest efficiency, the ICAR said.
The turmeric washer can clean up to 12 kg in just 2–3 minutes, while the slicers can cut 48 kg per hour into uniform slices, promoting even drying and improved powder quality, it added.
The beneficiary farmers have been requested to make effective use of the machines that cost around ₹25,000 and available at ICAR, Umiam.
Ahead of the distribution, 35 farmers underwent hands-on training on machine operation, maintenance, and custom hiring centre management, conducted by Dr Naseeb Singh, the inventor of the machines.
Meanwhile, formal agreements were signed with the beneficiaries to ensure responsible usage and upkeep of the equipment, the ICAR said.
In their address, ICAR NEH director Dr VK Mishra and TSP nodal officer Dr S Hazarika emphasised ICAR’s continued efforts toward empowering tribal farmers.
