The National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS), Ludhiana Chapter, of the Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), organized a special lecture on “Food Processing: Catalyzing Upliftment of Rural Livelihood.” Dr Bhupinder Singh Katkar, Former National President of Association of Food Scientists and Technologists of India and Retired Dean, Faculty of Environmental and Bio-sciences and Technology, Guru Jambeshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, was the guest speaker on this occasion. The event was chaired by Dr Mahesh Kumar, Additional Director of Research (Agricultural Engineering), PAU and organized in the Committee Room of the Food Industry Business Incubation Centre of the Department of Food Science and Technology.

In his lecture, Dr Khatkar highlighted the significant role of food processing in generating employment opportunities. He emphasized the need to address key areas essential for the sector’s sustained growth. In particular, he stressed the importance of reducing food wastage and valorizing it to create additional avenues for employment. He also noted the shift in consumer preferences towards healthier and more acceptable processed food products, underscoring the necessity for innovation in this area. Furthermore, Dr Khatkar underlined the critical requirement of developing a skilled workforce to meet the sector’s demands. He also drew attention to various Government schemes available, particularly at the rural level, for establishing food processing units. The lecture was followed by a vibrant discussion between faculty and students andthe interaction inspired new ideas and collaborative research opportunities.

Dr Kumar appreciated the insightful views shared by the guest speaker and delivered the concluding remarks. He noted that the agricultural sector is currently facing multiple challenges, including sustainability concerns, extreme weather events, and soil degradation. He highlighted that the Government of India is extending significant support for the establishment of MSMEs, which can serve as a driving force for rural development. Dr Kumar further emphasized that the integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning with food processing holds immense potential. Such innovations, he remarked, can play a pivotal role in uplifting the largely unorganized and rural-based food processing sector.

The event witnessed the gracious presence of university officers, distinguished scientists, and enthusiastic students from various departments, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary interest and support.

Dr Savita Sharma, Head, Department of Food Science and Technology, welcomed the guest speaker. Dr Parveen Chhuneja, Treasurer of the NAAS-Ludhiana Chapter, was also present on the occasion.

Dr Gaurav Kumar Taggar, Coordinator of NAAS-Ludhiana Chapter, expressed gratitude and proposed a vote of thanks.