4th North Zone Learn shop on “SIDBI-BDS Implementation in Clusters “


The fourth North Zone Learn Shop on SIDBI-BDS Implementation in Clusters was organized on 9th and 10th September in Dehradun, in which members of various clusters from north region participated and shared their experiences and learning by the project. The main objective of the learn shop was to mainly share the progress and development in the clusters, which was well shared by the cluster CDMs in their respective presentation.
The clusters which participated in the presentation were

  • Mohali-Chandigarh-Panchkula cluster presented by TERI
  • Ludhiana Knitwear Cluster presented by ACDS
  • Kanpur leather cluster presented by IL&FS
  • Dehradun pharmaceutical Cluster presented by APITCO
  • Panipat floor covering cluster presented by APITCO and
  • Badhoni floor covering cluster presented by APITCO
In his welcome address, Mr. Mukesh Gulati, Executive Director , FMC stated the importance of document. He emphasized that it’s the time of documentation which is important for measuring the change which the project has brought , it is also important to measure the input –out put ration and recognize major gainers and to identify the activity which has been the most beneficial. He also told about the national voluntary guidelines for responsible behavior. He talked about importance of innovation and appreciated the great pilot works which has been done in the clusters.

This was followed by the presentation of all CDMs of the developmental work in their clusters and discussion on the developments. The important highlights of the presentations were logframe achievements , WPWD matrix and success stories. They highlighted on the points were the project has been beneficial to the cluster. The works were appreciated by the representatives of FMC and SIDBI along with cross question.

The following day of the learn shop consisted of an Industrial visit to the pharmaceutical cluster Dehradun, in which the team divided into two groups visited different units to see the impact of project implementation in three different areas viz. energy, ICT and GMP. The units visited were

  • M/s Suncare Formulation in UPSIDC industrial area, Selaqui
  • M/s IPCA laboratories in Sara industrial estate, Rampur
  • M/s Natco Pharma Ltd, Selaquai
  • Oasis Laboratories Pvt. Ltd, UPSIDC Selaquai
  • Rydburg Pharma Ltd, Sara Industrial Estate , Rampur
In the industrial visit the team interacted the owners and managing directors of the units , to know their views on the changes or impact the project has brought. The response was very positive and the unit owners were happy and enthusiastic about the changes the project has brought. The learn shop concluded with a warm-up section and a healthy discussion on the learning and experience from the visit.

Organization of BDS Clinic


Program in association with MCCIA held on 18th August 2011. Shri Anant Sardeshmukh and Mr. Borawake inaugarted the program. Dr. Mallya (President AFSTI , Mysore) and Mr. Mahale guided participants on quality aspects and exports respectively. Mr. Oswal presented BDSC activities for cluster and NAFARI initiates.

With overwhelming response of 94 participants and 22consultants from field of quality improvement, packaging, labeling, regulatory, marketing, project consultancy, product developmental. At Bajaj gallery @ 22 desk the consultancy was provided with interactive discussions with feedback of consultants as queries served 196 in all. Program has in all initiated BDS in each areas of process industry. This activity is really going to benefit the firm with actual consultancy benefit. Firms showed the actual need for such interactive programs and need of BDS clinic.

Magazine and support Material


“Magazine and support Material”. (Undertaking the activity with NIFT TEA to promote designers widely and built industrial linkages through the experts).

For a knitwear and apparel industry innovative designs is a significant factor to cater to the demands of customers and stay in the competition. To meet this requirement a designers club has been formed in the Tirupur cluster. Designers from NIFT TEA are encouraged to become part of the club and various activities are organised to encourage them to bring more ideas and outputs. The members of the club being exposed to the international environment have developed a lot of good quality designs which is to be disseminated across the cluster. These are proposed to be printed and circulated in the cluster in the form of a magazine under the project support for an extended reach and promotion of local designing talents. The designs developed by the club members are submitted to a technical committee comprising established designers of Zeal Group, Ms. Aileen Lamden of SCI and NIFT TEA Faculties. 50 designs have been selected and compiled for preparation of magazine along with articles from various industry stake holders. Copies of the magazine have been printed and will be published in a seminar to be organised in the last week of July as a public function.

Cluster Coordination Committee Meeting


Cluster Co ordination Committee meeting was organized with the notion of discussing the activities performed in the cluster so far and discussing the viability and continuation of possible ventures in the upcoming semester. The purpose is to have a close watch on the activities carried out in the cluster and to get suggestions from the industry people for the better implementation of the activities planned for the next year. This also helps to create a better understanding of the project by the members.

Up gradation of Tirupur Exporters' Association (TEA) portal


A lot of delays in the production and shipments occur due to non availability of right information about the resources and suppliers of raw material, accessories and sub-contracting firms with the required details of their production capability in time, like knitting, dyeing, compacting, printing, embroidery and garment making. Hence to link various firms in the supply chain and to provide information about availability of various resources in the cluster including availability of BDS providers in the required areas to the end users to avoid wasteful investment and maximum utilization of existing resources is the need of the hour.

To cater to this need upgradation of TEA-ERC portal is being done which will have all the information about all support institutions, suppliers, service providers, apart from the details about the exporters who are members of TEA. This will also be linked to other websites of other industrial associations like KNITcMA, TEAKPA whose members are providing job work in knitting and garment printing.

Portals will be upgraded to have the facility of posting the available resources from various quarters of the industry, right from availability surplus capacity to extension of consultancy support, to posting CVs for employment and recruitment. This will be virtual news paper, which will cover all developments in the industry including the efforts taken to address identified areas of problems in production, processing etc.

Thus the portal will help to promote BDS Providers in all areas of services required for the industry, both in strategic and non strategic areas like testing, certification agencies, firms involved in logistics, buying agencies, financial and insurance institutions and technical consultants.

Establishing Linkages with National /International Designers


A lot of steps are being taken to encourage innovative designs and designers in the cluster. A meeting of CADET has been held on 14th of November Sunday at NIFT TEA to encourage and promote the designers in the cluster. Other than meetings, forums and communities were started in social networking websites. A blog has been started exclusively for the promotion of this activity. More than 100 designers and aspiring talents had joined to promote the club and its initiative.

The designs developed by the members were analysed by the guiding committee constituting NIFT TEA faculties and established designers of Zeal Group. To give an international exposure the linkage created with Scotland’s College International was used. A video conferencing with club members and Ms. Aileen Lamden of Scotland was conducted. The members were in continuous touch with the BDS for her guidance and inputs through Facebook and other forums.

Feasibility Study on Eco Green Evaporator to address the dying effluent problem


The treatment of dying effluent to achieve zero discharge has been a problem haunting the Tirupur cluster since last 2 decades. In recent times the High court’s order for the closure of units had made it a necessity for addressing this issue through proper R&D. It is under these circumstances NIFT TEA Knitwear Fashion Institute has approached experienced industrialists to do the research on the applicability of different technologies especially that of eco green evaporator, to address this issue and promote green manufacturing practices in the cluster.

Identifying the suitability of different technologies and comparison between them will help the cluster to choose the optimum technology for their industrial requirements. This can be done only with the help of experienced technical BDSPs. A cell named GTM is formed in NIFT TEA for exclusively assisting the cluster in this regard. A scientific approach on the same will increase the credibility of the services there by building trust and hence demand for the service. A detailed study was carried out to understand the dying effluent treatment using eco-green evaporator. A comparative analysis with the presently used technologies was done and the advantages of Eco Green Evaporator over the presently used technologies were mapped properly. A detailed SWOT analysis in general, also has been done, especially stating the applicability of the technology in the current business environment. An MoU was signed with the BDS on 18th May 2011 along with NIFT TEA as a partner to guide and monitor the entire study. A report was prepared and submitted on the given subject.

Support for creation of web portals


Tirupur cluster does not have a proper database about the services offered by its stake holders, due to which a major portion of its capacity is kept unutilised. As a solution for this a centralised databank has to be made which will provide complete information on the capacity of the cluster.

As much as 30% of the present capacity is idle in the cluster and on the other hand installation of similar sort of machineries is being done which is adding upto the pile of underutilised resources. This is due to the unavailability of proper information. Hence it has been proposed to create a proper, valid and easily accessible database for different levels of the value chain and make it available online. This will increase operational convenience and organisational efficiency to make them more competitive as it will provide an easily accessible platform for all. The associations (i.e. i. KNITcMA ii. DAT iii. TEKPA iv. TEKMA) selected for creation of web portals covers almost all the areas of the value chain such as knitting, dyeing, printing and CMT. A sensitisation program and validation of database were already done in the previous activities under the project.

The web portal will help the members of the Associations to have more business enquiries, within and outside the cluster. This will also help the producers to effectively use their installed capacity. This will reduce the lead time and improve the bottom-line of the sub contracting firms in the value chain.

Full Day Training Program on Packaging and Labelling in Food processing

15th April 2011
Under SIDBI support NAFARI and Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted training program on Packaging and Labeling on 15th April 2011. Mr. Vinay Oswal, director, NAFARI briefed about the prospective of food packaging, parameters of labeling and need for packaging and labeling. He also introduced Mr. U. R. Gotkhindikar for labeling session. Mr. Vinay Nalawade. Mr. U. R. Gotkhindikar explained about labeling requirements as per Packaged Commodity Act. Mr. Vinay Nalawade also talked about selection of Packaging, Flexi Film, Printing of film and Packaging Machinery.
Such type of training program is essential for Food processing Industries and BDS so as to adopt the latest trend & technologies in Packaging and to know the legal, labelling aspects of packaging.

One day training program on statistical quality control

22nd April 2011
Under SIDBI support NAFARI and Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted Training Program on Statistical Quality Control in which the prospective of Statistical Quality Control, parameters and importance of Statistical Quality Control were discussed. The topics covered were:

  • Basics of Statistics
  • Data handling and review
  • Process capability study
  • Determination of control limits
  • Applications
The practical training of above all topics was also provided.

Technology Summit 2011

28th April 2011
ACDS conducted a conference cum exhibition on 28th April 2011, “Technology Summit 2011”; Commercial Technologies and Innovations. Program was inaugurated by Dr. Narayan Hegde (Trustee & Principal Advisor, BAIF research foundation). Shri. Ajay Mehta (M.D, Deepak Group) told about the need to have value addition in agriculture processing. Shri Borawake (Chairman, Agriculture & Agribusiness Committee, MCCIA) presented key notes on Futuristic Technology Necessity through Innovation. Shri Rajveer Singh shared information about project and Technology Summit 2011. Presentation on Venture Center – Technology Business Incubator for MSMEs was delivered by Dr.Nandgopal, NCL, Pune. Dr. Sanjay Nene, NCL, Pune also added information on Small Business Innovation Research Initiative (SBIRI) Scheme for Public Pvt. Partnership. Opportunities in Food Processing and CFTRI Contribution in the Field were communicated by Shri. Badgujar, CFTRI, Mumbai. CIPHET developed Technologies for Food, Fruit and Vegetable Processing were showcased by Dr. R K Gupta, Principal Scientist & Head, Horticulture Crop Processing Division , CIPHET, Ludhiana. Presentation on Automation - the way forward to better efficiency, productivity and profits was delivered by Mr. Anup Wadhwa, Director, Automation Industry Association, New Delhi. Emerging Issues in Food Processing were presented by Dr. Dilip Kulkari, President, Agri-Food Division, Jain Irrigation Systems Limited, Jalgaon. Dehydration Technologies for Fruit Processing were communicated by Shri. Govind Hardikar, M.D, Hardikar’s Food Technologies Pvt. Ltd, Pune. Presentation on Natural dyes – Plant Extract was delivered by Dr. Naik, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune. Mr. Pranav Haldea, Director- Business Development, Praxis Consulting & Information Services Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi. Presented MSME Mentor - (www.msmementor.com) Web Portal to Guide MSME. Shri Vinay Oswal, Director, NAFARI expressed gratitude to all honorable guests and delegates by vote of thanks.

Awareness Program on MSME Mentor Registration

28th April, 2011
Mr. Pranav Haldea, Director- Business Development, Praxis Consulting & Information Services Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi. Presented MSME Mentor - (www.msmementor.com) Web Portal to Guide MSME. A stall for MSME Registration was exhibited and around 50-60 delegated were registered under this activity. The motive was to provide a platform for MSME to interact with BDSP with required services resulting in increased BDS for cluster.

Food Safety Management System at MIT College

30th April, 2011
NAFARI under the support of SIDBI & Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted one day full time program on shop floor training on Food Safety Management System on 30th of April 2011 for MIT College. The programme was inaugurated by Mr. Nagare, Principal of MIT College. He then welcomed Mr. Vinay Oswal, Director, NAFARI and all the students. Mr. Vinay Oswal Stated the need for such programme and discussed on Food Safety Management Systems issues. After that Mr. Vinay Oswal continued with his session on Introduction of ISO 9000 & 22000, Pre requisites- Pillars of HACCP- GMP Implications. In a good response of total 160 students the event was conducted. Overall the training programme provided effective knowledge on their product safety and other issue which are related to FSMS like verification of process, terminology in ISO – 22000 and extrinsic parameters in microbiology and project monitoring to evaluate different aspects for implementation of FSMS for industry etc.

Food Safety Management System at AISSMS College of HMCT

Date:- 26th March, 2010
NAFARI under the support of SIDBI & Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt Ltd conducted one day full time program on shop floor training on Food Safety Management System on 26th of March 2010 for AISSMS College of HMCT. The programme was inaugurated by Ms. Sonali Jadhav, Principal of AISSMS College of HMCT welcoming Mr. Vinay Oswal, Director, NAFARI and all the students. Mr. Vinay Oswal Stated the need for such programme and discussed on Food Safety Management Systems issues. After that Mr. Vinay Oswal continued with his session on Introduction of ISO 9000 & 22000, Pre requisites- Pillars of HACCP- GMP Implications. In a good response of total 80 students the event was conducted. Overall the training programme provided effective knowledge on their product safety and other issue which are related to FSMS like verification of process, terminology in ISO – 22000 and extrinsic parameters in microbiology and project monitoring to evaluate different aspects for implementation of FSMS for industry etc.
Such type of training programme will benefit students and food processing industries to eliminate defective and hazardous product in proper scientific manner. HACCP will evaluate critical points in process line increasing maximum yield for productivity.

) Two Days Training Program on Instrumental Analysis in Food, Fruit & Vegetable Processing

Date: 22nd – 23rd March 2011
Under SIDBI support NAFARI and Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted Two Days Training Program on Instrumental Analysis. Mr. Vinay Oswal, director, NAFARI briefed the participants about the prospective of food analysis, parameters of testing, need for analysis and importance of instrumental analysis. Ms. Bagyashri Kulkarni conducted hands on training session. Ms. Janvi Joshi shared her knowledge on Instrumental analysis, Methods of test. Etc.
The topics which were discussed are:
• Nutrient & component of Added toxic color
• Atomic Absorption Spectrograph and
• High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography.
• Introduction for High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) in microbial laboratory.
• Gas Chromatography

Such type of training program is essential for Food fruit and Vegetable processing Industries. Hands on training on Instruments will increase productivity and need of actual machinery installation and application will be generated increasing BDS market.

One day Training Programme on Market Identification & Effective Marketing Tools for Food, Fruit & Vegetable Processing Industry

Date: - 17th March 2011
Under SIDBI support MCCIA and Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted One day Seminar on Market Identification & Effective Marketing Tools for Food, Fruit & Vegetable Processing Industry. Shri Harshavardhan Ranade (Director, S. H. Consultants Pvt Ltd) explained 4 steps in Marketing with practical examples. He also shared information on branding and launching of products. Mr. Harshavardhan Ranade explained about following topic…

• Methodology of market identification and
• Market Assessment
• Analyzing target markets
• Linking opportunities and positioning oneself
• Effective Marketing tools for Domestic Marketing


Guest faculty Mr. Kanchan described the communication skill and customer behavior. Shri. Ranade concluded program with necessity of market research, effective method of marketing & skill development activities.

Such type of training program is essential for Food processing Industries and BDS to understanding the basics of marketing along with marketing skills. This activity will serve the need to come across market competency in the cluster.

Training Program on GMP/ GHP/ GLP

Date: - 9th March 2011
NAFARI under the support of SIDBI & in association with Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted a Full day training program on World Class GMP & GHP in food processing on 9th March 2011. Mr. Vinay Oswal, B.Sc. Food Tech., M. Phil, Director of NAFARI, Pune explained GMP & GHP and its importance world wide. He continued the session by focusing on points as; Different reasons the products get rejected in the market with few practical examples. He also added importance of GMP in respect to the HACCP. He also explained meaning of different words and terms related to GMP & GHP Like food poisoning, risk, GMhp, GAP along with the different topics. Question, answer session with the effective knowledge sharing concluded the training program.

Such type of training program is essential for BDSP serving Food processing Industries to ease the stringent quality and hygiene norms and encourage them to adapt the latest quality trends which will eventually prepare them to face global competition.

Food Safety Management System at All Care Farma Food Products

Date:- 7th March, 2010
NAFARI in association with ACDS and under the support of SIDBI conducted one day full time program on shop floor training on Food Safety Management System on 7th of March 2010 for All Care Farma Food Products. The programme was inaugurated by Mr. Varun Agarwal, Director, All Care Farma Food Products welcoming Mr. Vinay Oswal, Director, NAFARI and all the participants. Mr. Vinay Oswal Stated the need for such programme and discussed on Food Safety Management Systems issues. Mr. Vinay Oswal continued with his session on Introduction of ISO 9000 & 22000, Pre requisites- Pillars of HACCP- GMP Implications. In a good response of total 22 number of participants the event was conducted. Overall the training programme provided effective knowledge on their product safety and other issue which are related to FSMS like verification of process, terminology in ISO – 22000 and extrinsic parameters in microbiology and project monitoring to evaluate different aspects for implementation of FSMS for industry .

Such type of training programme will benefit firms and food processing industries to eliminate defective and hazardous product in proper scientific manner. HACCP will evaluate critical points in process line increasing maximum yield for productivity.

B2B Meet between Processed Fruit and Vegetables Firms & Farmers

Date: - 10th Feb 2011
A B2B meeting between processed fruit and vegetable firms and farmers was held at MCCIA. The objective was the marketing tie –ups of raw material suppliers with processing firms for the supply of quality raw materials.

Shri. Anant Sardeshmukh discussed on different raw material quality issues. Mr. Jayvant Vichare talked about shortage of raw material and subsidy required in working capital. Mr Abhijeet Khaire along with discussing the funding (SIDBI) and subsidy required also discussed on corruption issues related govt. nodal agencies. Ms. Shweta of Prajakta Technologies talked about variety of R.M required . Mr Kothari Mohite told that a nodal agency for farmers is required. Mr. Shinde a farmer talked about Issues related to stability in market pricing and told that escalation factor should be consider for contract farming Mr. Gadge (ADT, Baramati) told that the cost of agriculture production can’t be standardize as many issues are concerned to it, he emphasised on the need of market linkage and also talked about the actual market demand information which should be disseminated to farmers .

B2B will provide raw material linkage, creating scope for business development for firms on direct linkage benefit.

Awareness Program on Cost Saving Through Energy Efficiency for Fruit and Vegetables Processing Industries

Date: -, 31st January 2011
MCCIA and ACDS under SIDBI support awareness program on cost saving through energy efficiency for fruits and vegetables processing industries. Mr. A.H. Kelkar shared his knowledge on electricity bill analysis and cost saving opportunities along with welcome address for participants . Shri V. V. Kanetkar addressed participants with opportunities in energy conservation in fruits and vegetables processing. Mr. Harshal Surange presented energy conservation in refrigeration system (Cold Storages and Chillers).

Mr. V.S. Marathe communicated brief information on ECON in drying system. Mr. D.S. Gandhe guided participants on ECON in electric motors in process plants.

Awareness programme on energy efficiency will lead to importance of energy conservation and cost saving for the same. This can increase probability to have energy audit for industry in turn increasing BDS for Industry

Entrepreneurs’ Meet -” Celebrating the true spirit of entrepreneurship by bringing forward entrepreneurial role models from Pune”

Date:- 30th January 2011
On 30th January an event with the title “Celebrating the true spirit of entrepreneurship by bringing forward entrepreneurial role models from Pune” was organised. The evening programme included interviewing senior successful entrepreneurs who have created their own empire from scratch without any strong background. Companies from Pune which has been into existence for more then 121 years were felicitated. The theme for this event was “MADE IN PUNE” awards.

The event was to benefit young entrepreneurs, to overcome their problems and establish entrepreneurial role models in front of the society. The event was planned to bring forward more than 25 entrepreneurial role models in this event.

Awareness Programme on Registration of professionals and MSME in online data base.

19-02-2011 to 21-02-2011
MSMEs in India face many problems in different areas of their work and require professional expertise. There are lakhs of professionals too looking for opportunities to use their expertise. Msmementor.in is an online service to bring these two groups together for achieving the desired result. To bridge the gap between these two groups an awareness programme on registration of professionals and MSME on online database was organised. The dissemination programme was organised at KNIT-TECH Trade Fair at stall number C-54 along with M/s. NIFT TEA Knitwear Fashion Institute. More than 250 people visited the stall from across various areas. The purpose was to create awareness among the cluster stakeholders about msmementor.in through printed pamphlets and brochures.
Through this programme it is supposed that the MSMEs gets a trusted area to find the expertise of their choice and requirements and the BDS will get an added value through the portal and can get opportunities all across the MSMEs in India.

Sensitisation of outcome of energy conservation

18-02-2011
 Minimisation of waste and hence conservation of energy is one of the key areas which is to be focussed upon by the firms in the clusters. Hence it was necessary to

  1. Introduce the key areas of energy utilisation and the scope of energy savings in each area throughout the value chain in Apparel Manufacturing industry.
  2. Create awareness in the cluster about energy saving measures and the amount of monetary savings associated with it.
Hence a sensitization programme on the outcome of energy conservation was organised by ACDS in association with Wise Management System. The dissemination programme was organised at KNIT-TECH Trade Fair at stall number C-21 along with M/s. Semitronik Industries, a machinery and ancillary supplier for energy audits. More than 300 firms visited the stall during the fair. Wise Management Systems got lot of enquiries on energy saving audits and around 20 firms are already converted to potential customers who have shown their interest to go for complete energy audit in the coming financial year. The programme has Triggered energy saving measures in the units to convert energy loses to profitable income by having cleaner and responsible production by efficient and optimum energy utilization and reducing carbon emission.



3rd Entrepreneurs’ Club Meeting

11/02/2011
Entrepreneurs’ club has been promoted among the exporters of Tirupur to discuss the possibilities of availing various support facilities available under the project and from the schemes of Government of India and various other organizations. During the course of first two meetings it has been proposed to utilize new opportunities in the market through creating strong marketing support. The sourcing agents, who are the link between the market and the exporters came together to bridge their gap and hence it was decided to form a strong basement to operate from and hence it was proposed to form “Tirupur Sourcing Forum” and to link it with Entrepreneurs’ club.

The idea of TSF came from a developing BDSP who wanted to promote itself as an organized marketing consultant and a strategic advisor. This platform also helped the members to promote their locally developed brands in the market and also to identify new business opportunities coming from outside the cluster. Hence TSF and its linkage with the club will increase the demand of BDS by assisting them in approaching the market in a more professional way by adding value to the manufactured products. Also it has been proposed to utilize the market assistance schemes available with the Govt., to promote locally developed brands through these platforms.

The third meeting of the entrepreneurs club was a theme meet which was organized to present the concept of TSF to the Entrepreneurs’’ club members. Sourcing agents operating in the cluster had interactions with the club members and discussions were held on the scope of the linkages created. The sourcing agents discussed about the opportunity of using the club members as their suppliers.

It is anticipated that the club members will have a better understanding on the importance of BDS interventions and benefits. Once there is a leveraging on this area through the mentioned schemes, the entrepreneurs will demand more and more services from BDS providers. More members will be invited to join and strengthen the entrepreneurs club, avail various benefits under different schemes offered by the government there by leveraging the wide spread usage and sustainability of BDS activities in the cluster.

Workshop on energy conservation.

04-01-2011
Apart from international competition exporters in Tirupur Knitwear Cluster are facing a lot of problems. One of the reasons is the inability of the cluster to utilize and manage the available resources properly. A lot of wastage occurs throughout the production system due to improper monitoring and control. Energy wastages and loses both in terms of thermal and electrical, is one among them. In the present day market where the buyer is more concerned on cleaner and responsible production the area of energy utilization to its optimum level gains high attention and importance.

The cluster does not have much BDS Providers in the area of Energy Conservation and Energy Audit. Applying the measures for conservation of energy and it benefits, in the garment industry will spread the knowledge about the energy/cost saving principles among the entrepreneurs and will create demand for similar services from the other units in the industry. This will increase the reach and establishing linkages of the BDS providers among the firms in the cluster which are looking for similar services in the cluster.

In the workshop conducted by ACDS along with WISE Management Systems, which is an established brand now in the cluster for energy audits and have been associated with the project since they were formally introduced in the cluster as a strategic BDS, the energy saving potential in all specific points of the value chain from spinning of cotton to yarn, Knitting, Processing, Garmenting and all associated services has been separately explained to the participants.

As a part of the program a New BDS named M/s. Pothigai HRD was also introduced as a strategic BDS provider for serving the industry by organising similar events for improving the competency of the cluster. Important personalities including the MLA, Mayor, Dist. Collector, Association Leaders etc., were present who emphasised the need of such initiatives. The need for properly utilising the project opportunities was also discussed.

Trained women basking in glory of success.

The skill development initiatives taken by ACDS in its Ludhiana hosiery units is proving to be a great success, with more and more women joining the industry hereby catering to the labor requirement of the industry and becoming self dependent.
The following press clippings tell the stories of the benefitted women.

See the link below to know more such stories : -
More Success Stories..



"Aluminage" at NIFT TEA under EFAI

On 26thJanuary 2011 a meeting of old students of NIFT-TEA was conducted under EFAI. Mr. S. Dhananjayan CEO of MSS & Co, Tirupur, was the chief guest and Mr. Shabeer Ahammed K.M ,CDM, ACDS was the guest of honour. Mr. Raja. M. Shanmugam, the chairman of NIFT-TEA Presided over the function..

This Program was conducted under EFAI .This helped to make the executives of Tirupur more familiar with the activities of EFAI. The members could use EFAI as a platform for knowledge sharing As many as 200 Executives took part in the event.Lot of alumni talked about the Project and thanked ACDS as well as SIDBI for executing the same. Few of them also mentioned that these Programs under the Project helped them a lot to sharpen their skills.

Mr. Shabeer Ahammed explained the Alumni about EFAI, Designers club etc and their area of functioning. He also gave a brief explanation on the project we do with the aid of SIDBI. Mr Raja M. Shanmugam explained the students how to get benefited from the project. He pointed out the importance of continuous knowledge sharing. He also requested the members to share the knowledge with students so that they can have more industrial exposure. He also stressed about the importance of industrial institutional linkages.
He also added that the alumni can play a rather important role in strengthening the industrial institutional linkages. Chief guest Mr. Dhananjayan requested the students to make use of the project to the maximum. He also mentioned about continuous knowledge sharing and importance of industrial institutional linkages.



Training Program for Chemical Analysis of Food for Nutritional Facts and quality

NAFARI in association with ACDS under SIDBI Support conducted 2 days hands on training program on 3rd and 4th January 2011 on Chemical Analysis of Food for nutritional Facts and Quality Assessment. Mr. Vinay Oswal (Director, NAFARI) started session on key topics; prospective of food analysis, parameters of testing need for analysis, importance of water in freezing. Mrs. Pradnya Giri (Sr. Chemist) provided hands on training on Nutritional analysis, Methods of tests & calculations. Mr. Abrar (Microbiologist) described analytical methods as High Performance Liquid Chromatography, Gas Chromatography for Vitamins, Cur cumin, Alfa Toxin, Fat acid Profile. Ms. Bhagyashri Kulkarni (Microbiologist) concluded training program with session on Atomic Absorption chromatography

Training programme on Chemical analysis of food Nutritional Facts & and quality assessment provided a technical know how to analyse the food on different chemical aspects and its Nutritional facts. Quality assessment of the food products showed the evaluation procedures and its benefits.

Such type of training program is essential for Food processing Industries and BDS so as to improve analytical procedures of food products. It implemented as hands on training activity and created importance for quality assessment of the products. Such type of activities are need base for food industry and for the same BDSP will ultimately have scope to implement such activities to serve food industry.



Training Program on Microbial Analysis of water and fruit products

Under SIDBI support NAFARI and Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. conducted 3 days training programme on 6th -8th Jan. & 10th -12th Jan., 2011 on Microbiological analysis of food and water. Mr. Vinay Oswal (Director, NAFARI) started the session with prospective of food analysis, parameters of testing, need for analysis, importance of microbial analysis. Ms. Patil continued training session by sharing her knowledge on microbial analysis, analytical methods etc.

She described following analytical method with hands on training

  1. How to count the total number of colonies for dilution,
  2. Analysis of yeast, mould and coli form.
  3. Introduction for GLP in microbial laboratory.
  4. Analysis of pathogens in food samples as per BIS.
  5. Concept of E–coli and Salmonella.


Different food samples for their pathogens and no. of microbial colonies present were analysed. Biochemical screenings of the colonies detected were analysed and different water and fruit samples were graded on their quality, nutritional aspects. Participants had undergone through hands on training for Microbial analysis of Water and fruit products.

Such type of training program is essential for Food processing Industries and BDSP to provide the Quality and Food Safety assurance tests on Water and Fruit & Vegetable Product. Evaluation of shelf life studies on the basis on microbial load will increase potential of products of the firms and will create a need base in market for evaluation.



Three days Training program for Merchandisers on Export Marketing and E Filing

Apex Cluster Development services Pvt Ltd under SIDBI support organized three days Training program in Ludhiana at Sport King Institute of fashion Technology from 15 to 17 Dec 2010, for merchandisers on export marketing and e – filing to improve the skills of merchandisers and to help them in handling the sampling, export marketing and e- filing in an efficient manner.

The topics covered during the training programme were:

E filing for exports

  1. General requirement for filling export and using automated expert system (AES)
  2. Electronic filing options
  3. AES certification, qualification and standards
  4. Information required to be reported electronically through AES (data elements)
  5. Transmitting and correcting AES information
  6. Annotating the proper exemption legends or proof of filing citations for shipments transmitted electronically.
  7. Support, documentation and record keeping requirements.

Basics of International Trade

  1. Global Sourcing and Product sharing
  2. Trade barriers in International marketing
  3. International marketing Intelligence
  4. Market Entry strategies
  5. Market Coverage strategies
  6. International product Decisions
  7. International Pricing
  8. International Distributors
  9. International Promotions
  10. Export Financing

Export Documentations & Procedures
  1. IEC Number: - Need importance & method of applying for the IEC number.
  2. Membership cum registration: - The importance of AEPC & how it has helped the growth of the Garment industry.
  3. Inquiry & Offer: - How to generate enquiry for exports & to give the most lucrative offer.
  4. Confirmation of order: - How to confirm the export order & its importance.
  5. Export License: - Need, importance & method of applying for the Export License.
  6. Finance: - How Lc’s are the most effective methods to raise export finance & the other options available to an exporter.
  7. Shipping space: - How to contact the shipping companies which have sailings for the port to which goods have to be sent & to book the required shipping space.
  8. Packing & Marking: - How to do packing & marking of goods for export.
  9. Quality Control; & Pre-Shipment Inspection: - The Export (Quality Control; & Inspection) Act 1963.
  10. Excise Clearance: - Goods that are excisable, non excisable & those that have excise refund.
  11. Exchange Control Formalities: - Obligation to satisfy RBI.
  12. Insurance: - Need Importance & methods of Export Insurance

40 merchandisers were trained in export documentation and e filing / timely delivery and less hassles in production planning. This program has helped the merchandisers to develop skills for proper planning prior to starting production and will start the trend of refresher courses in the cluster for skill up gradation of employed personnel.



One day Training program on Quality, Safety, Preservation, Environmental and IPR issues to improve quality of production in food processing industry.

On the occasion of World Food Day One day Training program on Quality, Safety, Preservation, Environmental and IPR issues to improve quality of production in food processing industry was announced by AFSTI in association with SNDT women’s college and Apex cluster Development Services Pvt. Ltd. on 14 Oct 2010. The participants for the program were from the fruit and vegetable processing field namely entrepreneurs, AFTS(I) Members,‘ Bachat Gat’ (urban and rural) & BDS from Cluster Program inaugurated by Mr. Pradeep Chordia, Chordia Food Products Pvt Ltd and Souvenir launch of AFSTI. Mr. Pradeep Chordia presented Key Notes as Chief Guest along with importance of FOOD DAY. Dr. Mannuru (HOD, SNDT) presented statistics of Hunger Index current as well as presented facts as on Malnutrition. Dr. Alok Shah (CFTRI) presented session on Innovative trends and technologies in Fruits and Vegetable Processing Industry. Dr. Naikare guided participants on Quality and safety standards, FSMS for food products. IPR issues were discussed from SNDT students along with presentation.



One day Training program on Preservation Packaging and Labeling issues to improve quality of production in Food Industry

AFSTI in association with Apex Cluster Development services Pvt Ltd under SIDBI support announced One day Training program on Preservation Packaging and Labeling issues to improve quality of production in Food Industry. Mrs. Mukta Tilak, Corporator, PMC as chief guest guided participants welcoming all faculty members, she shared her views on World Food Day. Also how food industry can contribute to come across the hunger issues. Mr Shyam Satpute (Ex-opposite leader PMC) shared views and some findings as about cost of food products which is rising due to excessive use of chemicals Quality of product, health, hygiene and safety and sanitation standards. He stated promotion of good safety systems, hygiene and sanitation standards and health education would promote development of Nation as a whole. Mrs. Jayashree Shidore (Maitri, NGO) presented need, importance, role of individuals to play to cater the needs of ever increasing environment pollution, safety, hygiene and sanitation facility and ways and measure to eradicate poverty and effective measures for development of rural areas. Dr. Alok Shah (CFTRI) presented session on packaging, food technology and food processing their types, characteristics, importance, functions, role, nutritional and quality parameters required for different food products with respect to different packages and material used their limitations as well as advantages and disadvantages. Packaging technologies with Greater shelf life studies were discussed. Mr. Deeptiman Dewan (Director, H.S.G. Media Industry) addressed and elaborated his thoughts; “We have to look for the researchers which are positive and bottleneck which are negative. Mr Rama Subramanium (Masters in packaging science and Phd.) presented some influencing topics on street food on eve of world food day. Mrs Sheetal Oswal concluded session on Barcord V/S RFID. Dr. S. M. Naikare expressed gratitude by addressing vote of thanks to all participants.



Full day training program on world class GMP & GHP in food processing industry

NAFARI under the support of SIDBI & in association with Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt Ltd conducted a Full day training program on World Class GMP & GHP in food processing on 20th October, 2010. Representatives from Food related small and medium business enterprises and industries and entrepreneurs were the main participants of the programme. Mr. Vinay Oswal, B.Sc. Food Tech., M. Phil, Director of NAFARI, Pune explained GMP & GHP and its importance world wide. He continued the session by focusing on points like, different reasons the products get rejected in the market with few practical examples. He also added importance of GMP in respect to the HACCP. He also explained meaning of different words and terms related to GMP & GHP Like food poisoning, risk, GMhp, GAP along with the different topics. He also shared his experiences in Vadilal and Coco-cola Company and gave practical examples. Question, answer session with the effective knowledge sharing concluded the training program.



Training Program on new trends in packaging of processed food products

MCCIA in Association with Apex cluster Development services Pvt. Ltd conducted. New trends in Packaging of processed food products on 25th August, 2010 in Pune. The objective was to adapt the latest trend & technologies in Packaging and to know the legal aspects of packaging. The participants of the training were Representatives of food & vegetable processing Industry & BDS.

Shri D.V Shukla started event with welcoming Mrs. Bandekar (Indian Institute of Packaging, Mumbai) and all participants. Session started with a briefing of IIP activities and continued with different Packaging aspects. Mrs. Bandekar presented latest trends like Modified atmospheric packaging, controlled atmospheric packaging, Retort packaging and aseptic packaging. She also elaborated topics as shelf analysis and packaging to extend shelf life of Products. Different packaging attributes were considered in interactive session. Shri U R Gotkhindikar presented different legal aspects of packaging along with labelling guidelines for packaging. In response to attendance of 25 participants, program concluded successfully.



Training Programme on Personnel Management & HR

A two days training programme was conducted in Tirupur cluster by ACDS at Tea E Readiness Center on 24th and 25th August the topics covered were as given below:

1. The requirement of proper HR System and environment in the cluster.

2. The objectives, needs and concepts of Teamwork and Motivation.

3. Why teamwork, how structuring a team, recipe for successful team

4. Stages of team development, team behavior, roles, overcoming obstacles.

5. Team Leader characteristics, responsibilities, problem solving process, evaluating the performances of a team and viewing top teams.

The importance of team work, unity etc., were covered during the session. Also discussed about who a ‘customer’ is and what is the importance of a customer; as well as what is customer satisfaction as well as how to achieve the same. The BDS also explained how important a proper and systematic Organizational structure is for delivering the value to the customer for achieving Customer satisfaction.



Training Program for Chemical Analysis of Food for Nutritional Facts and Quality Assessment

Two days training programme on Chemical Analysis of food for nutritional facts and Quality Assessment of the course was conducted by ACDS in association with NAFARI in Pune on 27th and 28th August. The training started with Dr. R. K. Chavan’s shared knowledge on nutritional elements present in the food, their role, significance and importance in order to bring effect to provide better nutrition, quality and hygiene and also to solve health problems. He described the importance of nutritional value of food which is assessed by the energy they produce which is denoted in terms of calorific value. Session continued with quality assessment as it is essential to estimate the moisture, ash, protein, and carbohydrate contents of food and its calorific value (kcal/g). He then elaborated and thoroughly described the parameters to determine calorific value for which the food is analyzed they were,

Determination of moisture by oven distillation and direct distillation method.

Determination of ash by dry ash method and ash insoluble in acid method.

Determination of fat by Soxhlet extraction method.

Determination of protein by Kjeldahl method.

Later he focused the training on Analysis of different food samples including milk powder, biscuit, fruit bread, stuff paratha, soup etc for calorific value. Mrs. Pradnya Giri provided effective practical hands on training to determine analysis of food samples for Calorific value and chemical testing.

The participants of the training were representatives of food & vegetable processing Industry & BDS. The expected outcome of the training was training a batch of 15 from firms and BDSP’s on Chemical analysis of food for nutritional facts issues and emerging BDS as a lead training organisation on quality issues.



Training Program on Microbial Analysis of Water and Fruit Products

In order to educate firms and BDS on different microbial analysis method for water and fruit products and to provide hands on training to have shelf life studies in Microbiological analysis, NAFARI in Association with Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt Ltd conducted a 3-day training program on Microbial Analysis of Water and Fruit Products on 31st Aug, 2nd Sep and 4th Sep.

The training program provided hands on training to 12 participants by Mrs. Namrata Patil (Microbiologist), and training on field to count the total number of colonies present in a given food sample by tests like Total plate count ,Yeast and mould counts, Coli form counts (in duplicates). Analysis of the microbial colonies found out was carried out further to detect which were the microbes or pathogens causing food hazards. In effect to this she conducted different tests to detect these pathogenic micro-organisms causing hazards which were 1) Pre-enrichment, incubation and observation 2) Selective enrichment incubation, observation, incubation and lastly 3.) Biochemical screening to detect and confirm the presence of microbes presents in different food samples. On whole the training programme was practical oriented which provided thorough knowledge to analyse different water and fruit products with presence of pathogens containing in it as per BIS rules.



Training Program on Sensory analysis of aroma and flavours

With the objective of capacity building of firms, organisations, consultants and SMEs on Sensory analysis of aroma and flavours and to improve the quality of production of Food ingredients and packaged foods. AFSTI under the support of SIDBI & Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt Ltd conducted 1day Training Program on Sensory analysis of aroma and flavours to improve quality of production of Food ingredients and packaged foods on 24th September 2010 in Pune.

Ms. Sudipta Biswas started programme welcoming all faculties, designated persons and participants. She introduced Dr. Alok Shah, Scientist at DFRL, Mysore for further session. He covered the topics related to sensory evaluation which were mainly nutritional and organoleptic testing of food ingredients, applications of sensory analysis, modern sensory analysis, selection and training of panellists, sensory test methods and reactions with corresponding stimuli and receptors. His lecture was followed by Dr Mannuru(H.O.D) food science and nutrition of S.N.D.T College who described about need and importance of sensory evaluation in food. Ms. Ketaki auditor from EQUINOX LABS presented a lecture about range of services provided by equinox labs ltd. Sensory evaluation and application of sensory evaluation and how to perform it, selection and instructions of panellists. Her lecture followed by Dr.S. M. Naikare sir President of AFSTI who delivered speech about different type of quality criteria to evaluate food. Sensory quality and lab setup requirements. Panel selection and training and application of sensory tests to food Industry. Dr. Chapke, lab in charge of equinox lab and Mrs. Sneha conducted the practical training programme to determine quality, aroma, flavour and different chemical and physical tests of food ingredients. Programme concluded with interactive session and along with distribution of participation certificates by Dr. Alok Shah and Dr. S. M. Naikare.



Training Programme on Market Identification & Effective Marketing Tools for Food Industry

A day’s training programme was conducted on 24th September by MCCIA under the support of SIDBI & Apex Cluster Development Services Pvt Ltd., on Market Identification & Effective Marketing Tools for Food Industry.

Mr. D. V. Shukla, Director Agri Business, MCCIA, Pune. Inaugurated the session by welcoming the guest faculty and the participants. Ms. Minal Rajkarne presented the details of the SIDBI project implemented for Pune Fruit and Vegetable Processing Cluster. Mr. Harshavardhan Ranade started with the introduction from the participants. Further he explained 4 steps in Marketing with practical examples. Mr. Shrirang Gokhale joined the session and shared his experience in Philips Company about product development, customer relation, marketing needs, product Innovation. Mr. Bhat explained Marketing in Food products along with different segments in food products and how marketing differs in each era. Mr. Patil guided a practical approach for domestic marketing for FMCG products by giving live examples in the market. Also shared information on branding and launching of products. Mr Ranade continued with necessity of market research and effective method of marketing. Some skill development activities were conducted so as to know about the personality of the persons and Shri. Ranade gave suggestion accordingly.

52 participants attended the programme hereby crossing the mark of expected number of participants which was 30. The programme was conducted successfully with satisfactory knowledge enhancement of the participants.



Training of female operators on hand embroidery

In the ongoing training programme in Ludhiana Knitwear cluster , Ivanna Institute identified some 60 females from rural and semi urban backgrounds who were either already taking up some vocational course to equip themselves to be working in the garment industry and earn a livelihood for themselves and their families, or others who were looking forward to learning a skill and start a job somewhere. NGO’S of the city who were having some unskilled women under their project were keen to get them skilled and further find them some suitable employment. Women under these NGO’S were also invited to be a part of the programme. Some women who were keen to work and earn money from home but were not equipped with any skill were also invited to participate in this programme. Material for embroidery was provided to each participant by the Institute. A course curriculum was planned for them in which they were taught different methodologies of hand embroidery which could further be used for surface ornamentation of garments of knitwear industry. They were also told about the different yarns, different needles, and other accessories used in embroidery. All things available in the market for embroidery purpose were introduced to them. They were taught the skill of hand embroidery, and were also given a chance to practice the same on the designs and fabrics provided to them. Students were given an opportunity to learn under different trainers. Ms Meenakshi Behal and Ms Rajwinder Kaur were invited to train these female operators by imparting training to them. Classes were held from 10.00 am to 4.00 pm each day. On the concluding day of the programme, entrepreneurs from the Knitwear industry were invited to honor these students, and to check the display of the work performed by these students.



Training Program in "Material Management in Garment Industry"

One day training programme was conducted focusing various materials management tools that could be applied in sourcing, material planning and inventory control; that in turn will improve the quality, reduce time delayed in production and cost in carrying the inventory. The program was organized on February 24, 2010 at TEA ERC Hall, Tirupur.

Professors from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Textile Management (SVPITM) and experienced professionals from the Industry in the relevant areas discussed on

  • Cost reduction techniques through Material Management
  • Importance of determinants of Materials to avoid discrepancy and delays
  • Just In Time concepts
  • Inventory and Store Management
  • Material Management Systems
The courses has been designed to give practical training to the participants to apply material management principles, to reduce cost involved in material handling and production in Garment Industry.

It has been proposed to conduct short term courses for the benefit of the managers and entrepreneurs in the cluster in the coming months, in various management principles after identifying the time which will be more suitable for them to make the programme more useful and beneficial to the garment industry at Tirupur.



Inauguration of Training Programme in Wooden Toys

Under the Madhya Pradesh Rural Livelihood Project training Programm was organized for Wooden Toy Cluster Development Programme. Inauguration ceremony of training was scheduled on October 25, 2009. Mr. Dhananjay, DPO, MPRLP, lighted the lamp and initiated the programme with his knowledgeable words. Team members of ACDS provided introductory remarks and Shri Rajendra Sharma, Key Trainer for the project, introduced the trainees and an interactive session was organized for the benefit of the trainees. The venue for the commencement of programme was training centre at Village Mehroi under Cluster Gohparu in Shahdol.



Inauguration of Training Programme for Female Stitching Operators of Rural Area

Under Project “Implementing BDS for MSMEs” an inaugural function was organized at Village Maqsoodran, near Doraha, to formally begin the training program for rural females in stitching operation. Village and Block dignitaries as well as the participants recruited for the training program attended the program.

The program started with the felicitation of Mr. Harinder Pal Singh – Honey, Chairman, Zila Samiti, Doraha Block and Ms. Kamaljit Kaur, Vikas Officer, Ludhiana District. Mr. Harvir Singh and Mr. Sanjeev Chaudhary from ACDS gave an overview of the project and the training Program. They explained the training requirement and the employment opportunities available for the trained personnel. The females were given guarantee of the job in the factories and were motivated to work in the firms. Mr Sarabjit Singh, Panchayat Secretary gave an inspiring lecture and tried to dispel all the doubts of the trainees.

Mr. Harinder Pal Singh inaugurated the training center and showed the machinery to the gathering. Afterwards an interactive session was held along with the trainees to answer their queries. The training time and course details were shared with them.



Training Programme for Female Unskilled Stitching Machine Operators

It has been observed that Ludhiana knitwear industry is facing acute dearth of skilled machine operators for the manufacturing process of T-shirts and Sweaters. In order to provide trained manpower to the cluster and to provide gainful employment to the rural females, a training program for one month was conducted at a factory under Project “Implementing BDS for MSMEs”.
The training program was organized from November 2, 2009 to November 30, 2009. For training program infrastructure was provided by the firm York Exports. While the cost of training, transportation and trainees mobilization was borne by the project.

Training was provided on all aspects of stitching and a test of trainees was conducted after the program to evaluate the skills of the trainees. Some females were fast learners and were ready to be shifted to production floor within 21 days while other females took a little longer and were ready to work in a production line after 30 days training. Soon after completion of the training program these trainees were appointed by the firm itself.



“Training on GMP – GHP” for micro and small firms

“Training on GMP – GHP” for micro and small firms was organized on November 30, 2009 at Pune Fruit and Vegetable Processing Cluster in collaboration with Amro Institute under the Project “Implementing BDS for MSME“. The main purpose of training was to motivate the Micro and Small firms for adoption of food safety and quality assurance mechanism such as TQM including GMP & GHP. The training program helped Micro and small scale Food processing Industries to understand the stringent quality and hygiene norms and encourage them to adapt the latest quality trends which will eventually prepare them to face competition prevailing in the market. Lectures on HACCP Prerequisites were discussed in first session followed by presentation on Good Manufacturing practices and Good Hygiene Practices. Micro and Small firms were provided information that firms, which are unable to obtain ISO of HACCP, can go in for GMP & GHP.



Training Program on Screen Printing for Unskilled Operators at Ludhiana Knitwear and Apparel Cluster

Under Implementing BDS for MSME a one month Screen Printing Operator Training Program was organized by ACDS at Ludhiana in collaboration with Krishna Educational Foundation Trust, to enhance skills in fabric and garment printing and to impart knowledge regarding different types of printing.

The training program was initiated by selecting 30 suitable participants for the training program. Majority of the selected participants were either unemployed or under employed. Few of them were working at a very low salary and that too in the night shifts while rest participants were nearly unemployed.

After training 3 participants who were from the unemployed youth and had the zeal and entrepreneurial spirit but they were lacking guidance are now ready to start their own screen printing business. Few candidates were already working in the printing units but lacked adequate knowledge of the process or techniques were able to raise their skill levels that will help them in getting promotions and increments. The rest of the trainees learnt the complete process and are now working with different printing units at salaries in the range of Rs 3000- 4500/ month. The screen printing industry highly appreciated the training program.



Training Program on Sensory Evaluation Concepts & Practices in Food Chain

“Training Program on Sensory Evaluation Concepts and Practices in Food Chain” was organized at Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) Mysore from July 6-8 2009 under Pune Fruits and Vegetables Processing Cluster Project of SIDBI by NAFARI in Association with Apex Cluster Development Services. A three day training Programme was organized for Fruit & Vegetable Processing Industries and representatives of manufacturers of flavours and ingredients, food testing laboratories, food technologists and consultants, etc.

The programme included to & fro traveling cost by special bus, 50% of training and organizing cost, lodging & boarding during the training the program was received from participants and remaining 50% of the training and organizing cost was subsidized by the fruit and vegetable processing cluster project and NAFARI.