The ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, organized a training program on flower crop value addition for women self-help groups at CHES, Chettalli as part of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) program. The initiative was aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs with practical skills to enhance livelihood security, create income opportunities, and explore sustainable entrepreneurial ventures.
During inaugural program, Dr. Muralidhara B.M., Scientist, CHES, Chettalli highlighted the critical need for flower value addition, particularly in a tourist hub like Coorg. Dr. G. R. Smitha, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIHR and Course Director, emphasized the potential of value-added flower products to maximize utility and profitability and entrepreneurial opportunities. Dr. S. Rajendiran, Head, CHES outlined how these techniques could help women self-help groups generate supplementary income, especially during their free time.
During the technical session, Dr. G. R. Smitha discussed techniques for utilizing fresh, dried, and processed flowers emphasizing their economic and ecological benefits, including waste reduction and environmental conservation. The participants were engaged in the preparation of fresh flower products like different types of bouquets, vases, flower decorations etc. The dry flower techniques included different methods of drying, tinting and embedded drying. Value added products like processed flower like potpourri, gulkhand, floral teas, natural dyes, essential oils, pankhuri, holy colors, natural flower pigmentsand epoxy-resin encapsulations were also demonstrated. The program was attended by more than 60 participants majority being women. The program was coordinated by Dr. G. R. Smitha, Dr. A. T. Rani, Dr. S. Rajendiran, Dr. Muralidhara B.M., and Dr. Nayan Deepak G. This training represents a significant step toward sustainable floriculture entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment.
