IGNOU Offers Course on Food and Vegetable Processing

The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has invited applications for a diploma course in food and vegetable processing, Admission started in July 2013 and last date 31 July for course in Value Added Products from Fruits and Vegetables (DVAPFV)

The programme, launched with the ministry of food processing industries, is aim at inculcating vocational and entrepreneurial skills to widen employment opportunities, particularly among rural youth and the disadvantaged sections of the society.

"The main objective of the programme is to provide the knowledge and skills for minimizing the harvest losses and production of value added food products. To develop human resource for harvest management and for primary processing of fruits and vegetables produce at the production areas clusters,"

The duration of the course is one year. However, candidates have the flexibility of completing the course within four years. The medium of course is English and Hindi.

"The course fee is Rs 12,000. But the candidates interested from rural areas and candidates living below poverty line in urban areas can avail 50 per cent fee concession on submission of valid proof,"

The course is open to senior secondary school, class 10 pass out or any graduate. Candidates who have passed Bachelor Preparatory Programme (BPP) from IGNOU can also apply.

Aspirant students can obtain the form and prospectus from various regional centres for Rs 200.