The Noklak District’s Farmer Producer Organization (FPO) has designed and developed two low-cost machines, an oil expelling machine and a cooking cum drying machine. These machines were launched on 17 September by SP Noklak Pritpal Kaur, IPS.
The inspiration behind the inventions was a food processing machine that the SP had arranged to be brought from Haryana in the previous year. The machine was installed by the SP Office and the farmers were given training on how to use it.
Kaur, who is known for her philanthropy, while launching the machines encouraged and urged farmers and the youth to come up with more innovations to help farmers.
SP Noklak Pritpal Kaur, IPS, launching the machines invented by FPO in Noklak.
Kisan President Noklak Hangthing along with Thumong were credited for taking the initiation of developing the machines.
The oil expeller machine is one-of-a kind machine that will make life simpler. Traditionally, oil is extracted from seed by pounding the seeds, which requires hard labour. This small machine will grind the seeds and extract its oil in very less time and without much effort.
The cooking cum drying machine can be used simultaneously to dry products like cardamom, meat, and vegetables. It comes with three different temperature settings so that the products can be dried accordingly for best results.
Nagas traditionally dry and preserve for consumption in off seasons, but this tradition is time consuming and require sunny weather. With the help of this machine, drying food will no longer be as painful.
The farmers informed that the machines were available for sale to interested buyers and that new and better features would be added soon.
Trainings on making various food items were part of the programme held at Noklak Village Council Hall.
Mongshai from Taste of Noklak Society taught the attendees the art of making pickles. Newkai, President Khiamniungan Meniu Hoikam, showed ginger candy making while Sipong explained the process of making flavoured honey. Wongto from Land Resources Department showed how to make valuable products from bee wax.
Participants at the training being showed how to make pickles in Noklak.
