Training workshop Value Addition 5th May 2025
STI-Hub Product launching 6th May 2025
Venue: Malikarjun Temple Hall, Gaondongrim
TERI Hosts a Workshop for STI-Hub Project, Launches Local Products in Goa
TERI organized a one-day training workshop under the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Hub project, supported by the DST-SEED division, to empower Self-Help Group (SHG) under ST community members through skill development in value addition. The event focused on the processing of locally available seasonal products—jackfruit and kokum—for income generation and livelihood enhancement.
The workshop was graced by distinguished guests including Mrs Sunetra Talaulikar (Retired Senior Scientist ICAR-KVK, North Goa), Mr Shivaram Gaonkar (Project Director, ATMA, Department of Agriculture, Goa), Mr Nagesh Komarpant (Assistant Director of Agriculture, Directorate of Agriculture, Goa), Mr Vijayanand Naik (District Officer, Goa Khadi and Village Industries Board), Mr Rajesh Gaonkar, Chairman of the STI-Hub Farmers Association and Jan Vikas Vividha Karyakari Sahakari Seva Saunstha Maryadit, Mr Suparajit Raikar (Apiculturist, M/s Raika & Co.), along with Mr Santosh Gad (Associate Fellow, TERI & Principal Investigator – DST-SEED Project) and Ms Karishma A Gad (Team member).
During the workshop, hands-on training sessions were conducted to demonstrate various processing techniques and value addition methods for jackfruit and kokum. The aim was to provide SHG members with practical knowledge and handholding support to initiate micro-enterprises and enhance livelihood opportunities in the region.
Launch of Local Products under DST-SEED Project
On 6th May 2025, a significant milestone was achieved under the DST-SEED project with the official launch of local products at a workshop organized in Gaondongrem, Canacona, Goa. The event brought together key stakeholders from the government, agriculture, and ST community-based organizations, showcasing the collaborative efforts toward sustainable rural development and livelihood enhancement.
The event was graced by Hon’ble Speaker of the Goa Legislative Assembly, Mr Ramesh Tawadkar, as the Chief Guest. Other esteemed guests included Shri Shivaram Gaonkar, Project Director – ATMA; Mr Nagesh Komarpant, Assistant Director of Agriculture; Mr Mahendra Pagi, ZAO Canacona; Mr Suparajit Raikar, Apiculturist from M/s Raika & Co; Mr Rajesh Gaonkar, Chairman – STI-Hub Farmers Association; and Mr Prabhakar Gaonkar, representing JVVKSSSM.
Mr Santosh Gad, Associate Fellow, TERI, presented the progress and milestones achieved. He emphasized how the project is helping local ST communities through training, capacity building, and support in value addition.
As part of the event, four local value-added products—Honey, Rice, Cashew Nuts, and Chili Powder—were officially launched. These products were developed in collaboration with the STI-Hub Gaondongrem and the Jan Vikas Vividha Karyakari Sahakari Seva Saunstha Maryadit (JVVKSSSM).
In his address, Hon’ble Speaker Goa, Mr Ramesh Tawadkar commended the efforts of the farmers and organizations involved. He encouraged farmers across villages to come forward and actively engage with institutions like TERI, utilizing available support to strengthen their livelihoods. He highlighted the importance of such grassroots efforts in achieving the vision of the Swampurna Bharat Mission, where rural development, self-reliance, and local entrepreneurship are central.
The event marked a vital step towards empowering local communities and building a self-sustaining rural economy in Goa.
