The Agri-Business Incubation (ABI) Centre of ICAR–IIHR organized a one day Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) on “Packaging, Storage, and Ripening Methods for Fruits and Vegetables” on 11 December 2025. The objective of the training was to enhance the technical knowledge and entrepreneurial capacity of horticulture stakeholders, with a focus on appropriate packaging, storage, and ripening techniques for various fruits and vegetables. The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. S. S. Hebbar, Principal Scientist and Nodal Officer, ITMU and ABI, ICAR–IIHR, who greeted the dignitaries and participants. Dr. S. Bhuvaneswari, Principal Scientist and Course Director, highlighted the importance of scientific methods of packaging, storage, and ripening to reduce post-harvest losses and extend the shelf life of horticultural produce. The inaugural session was presided over by the Director, ICAR–IIHR, who commended the diverse participation and emphasized the significance of proper post-harvest practices in horticultural crops. He also shared key information on export requirements for fruits and vegetables and underscored the need for residual analysis and adherence to MRL limits while exporting horticultural produce.

The technical sessions were led by Dr. S. Bhuvaneswari, who provided a comprehensive overview of packaging types and methods for transportation and storage of fruits and vegetables. Additional lectures on Post-Harvest Handling and Management and Supply Chain Management of Fruits and Vegetables were delivered by Dr. D. V. Sudhakar Rao and Dr. Vijay Rakesh Reddy, respectively. The training also included practical demonstrations on low-cost ripening technology, packaging techniques, storage practices, and export-related procedures. A total of nine participants attended the programme, representing early-stage entrepreneurs, agri-professionals, and exporters. The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates and a vote of thanks by Dr. M. Thangam, Co-PI, ITMU & ABI, who expressed gratitude to all speakers, participants