HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, Dec 15: A five-day Digitised Value Chain Programme on Agri-Food Marketing and Branding concluded on Monday at the Central Institute of Technology (CIT), Kokrajhar, with the aim of strengthening market access and branding capabilities of rural entrepreneurs and agri-producers.
The programme, which began on December 10, was organised by the Science, Technology and Innovation Hub (STIHub), CIT Kokrajhar, with funding support from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, in collaboration with the North East Impact Foundation.
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The initiative focused on empowering participants by enhancing skills in marketing, branding, packaging and digital selling of agri-food products.
It sought to address key challenges faced by rural producers, including limited market visibility, rising competition and restricted access to wider markets, while promoting sustainable and inclusive agri-business practices.
The sessions opened with an overview of agri-food marketing fundamentals, market analysis and customer segmentation.
This was followed by practical discussions on branding, product storytelling and eco-friendly packaging solutions tailored to local conditions.
Participants were also trained on labelling standards, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India compliance and packaging modifications suited for different market segments.
A dedicated segment of the programme focused on distribution channels and digital market linkages.
Participants received guidance on onboarding processes for e-commerce and digital platforms such as Walmart, Flipkart, Meesho and the Open Network for Digital Commerce.
The final day highlighted the use of digital tools, including Facebook and WhatsApp Business, for product promotion, customer engagement and enhancing online sales preparedness.
The programme drew participation from farmers, rural entrepreneurs, self-help group members, agri-processors and stakeholders from allied sectors such as dairy, poultry, fisheries and sericulture from Kokrajhar and surrounding areas.
The sessions were conducted by the STIHub team under the guidance of Co-Principal Investigator Dr Anuck Islary and Principal Investigator Dr Pranav Kumar Singh. Organisers said the initiative is expected to strengthen the digitised agri-food value chain by improving product value addition, expanding market access and increasing income opportunities, thereby contributing to sustainable rural economic development in the region.
