Minister Prof. Lalnilawma Launches Basic Food Processing Course for Constituency Residents

Seling, Aug 2025: Rural Development & Administration Minister and MLA from Tawi Constituency, Prof. Lalnilawma, today inaugurated a “Basic Food Processing Course” for the benefit of local residents at the Mizoram Food Processing Research & Training Centre (MFPRTC), Incubation Centre, Phaibawk, Seling.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Minister Prof. Lalnilawma stressed the importance of acquiring skills that enable individuals to stand on their own feet rather than depending solely on government aid. He noted that while monetary assistance or food provision may temporarily solve problems, imparting skills that enable people to generate income, produce food, and create marketable products is far more sustainable and empowering. He expressed satisfaction that the people of his constituency were being trained to acquire such essential skills.

Highlighting the importance of food processing, the Minister explained that agricultural produce in Mizoram, if left unprocessed, often goes to waste. Processing is therefore crucial, and for this purpose, knowledge and skills are necessary. He added that locally processed products would help farmers in Mizoram gain better value for their produce and also serve as quality goods for consumers. He encouraged trainees to utilize the training effectively, pointing out that even individuals with limited resources could start small ventures if they had the necessary knowledge and determination.

At the MFPRTC Incubation Centre in Seling, trainees are being instructed in making pickles, jams, powders, chips, juices, preservation techniques, and food safety practices. A batch of 20 trainees will undergo the one-month course.

The training inauguration programme was chaired by Pu Joseph L. Ralte, Centre Director, and certificates were later distributed to the participants by Minister Prof. Lalnilawma.