ICAR-National Research Centre for Banana

ICAR–National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB), Tiruchirappalli, organised a two-day training program on “Banana Fibre and Value Addition – Training and Technology Transfer” from February 17 to 18, 2026. This event, part of the Tamil Nadu government’s Ainthinai Mission, brought together farmers, entrepreneurs, and rural youth from Namakkal district. The main goal was to demonstrate that banana pseudostems are not just waste, but they offer real opportunities for launching new businesses and increasing income. Dr. R. Selvarajan, Director of ICAR–National Research Centre for Banana, inaugurated the programme and highlighted the significance of banana cultivation under the theme “Banana – An Important Crop for Entrepreneurship and Livelihood.” In Tamil Nadu, 5 million tons of bananas are produced, of which 10,000 acres are cultivated in the districts of Namakkal, Tiruchirappalli, and Karur. We have introduced high-yielding and value-added banana varieties such as Kaveri Vaman, Kaveri Kanchan, and Kaveri Kalki. He stated that these varieties will create export opportunities and entrepreneurial prospects in the delta districts. Principal Scientist Dr. J. Poorani further addressed the gathering and underscored the importance of developing value-added banana products as a sustainable strategy to enhance farmers’ income and promote agribusiness opportunities. Scientists delivered comprehensive sessions on banana value addition, post-harvest management for domestic and export markets, and the machinery used in banana fibre extraction and processing. The training focused on scientific extraction of fibre from banana pseudostem, operation and maintenance of fibre extraction machines, grading, processing methods, and development of diversified value-added products. Experts demonstrated eco-friendly technologies for converting banana waste into commercially viable products. Hands-on practical training and technology transfer were carried out on the preparation of banana fig, banana flower thokku, banana stem pickle, low-calorie banana stem juice, fibre extraction and softening, and the production of fibre-based handicrafts. Farmers, entrepreneurs, and rural youth actively participated and gained direct exposure to these technologies. Many expressed interest in establishing value-addition units. The programme concluded with participant feedback, followed by the valedictory address by Dr. P. Suresh Kumar, institutes Ainthinai Project Coordinator. The two-day training is expected to strengthen banana-based enterprises in Namakkal district and enhance farmers’ income.