Under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Women in Agriculture (AICRP–WIA), the Department of Resource Management and Consumer Science (RMCS), College of Community Science, Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, organized a demonstration-cum-training programme on flour mill operation on December 11, 2025, at the Custom Hiring Centre, Village Boparai Kalan, in collaboration with the office of the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Ludhiana. The programme witnessed the participation of about 50 members, primarily from Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
Dr Nishat, Nodal Officer, ADC Office, Ludhiana, apprised the participants about the Mera Bill App and encouraged SHG members to adopt the platform for marketing their multigrain atta. He also assured support by providing opportunities for product promotion through exhibitions and events organized under the ADC office.
Dr Shivani Rana, Scientist, Department of RMCS, imparted hands-on training on flour mill operation, including demonstration of processing, packaging, and marketing of flour. She emphasized the relevance of such small-scale enterprises in generating sustainable income for rural women. The programme was specifically designed to enhance SHGs’ awareness about government schemes, financial opportunities, and welfare initiatives aimed at women-led groups.
Officials from the ADC office briefed participants on various ongoing schemes, support services, and funding avenues, with special focus on digital tools such as the Mera Bill App. Mr Harmeet Singh, BPNFL, and Mr Chandan Kapoor, Manager (Regulatory), NSE, also addressed the gathering and guided SHG members on strengthening their groups and effectively utilizing available government facilities.
Addressing the participants, Dr Shivani Rana highlighted the crucial role of Self-Help Groups in women’s empowerment, stating that collective efforts, skill development, and micro-entrepreneurship can significantly transform the socio-economic status of rural women. Informational booklets were also distributed to support participants’ learning.
The programme concluded with participants expressing their gratitude to PAU scientists and the ADC office for providing valuable technical guidance and motivation toward income generation and women-led entrepreneurship.