Aizawl: The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education-Bamboo & Rattan Centre (ICFRE-BRC), Aizawl, on Thursday kicked off a comprehensive two-day green skills training programme titled ‘Introduction to Composting and Apiculture’ under the Van Vigyan Kendra.The training is being attended by 20 participants from the Bethlehem Vengthlang locality of Aizawl.The training programme will feature technical sessions and practical demonstrations designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to establish their own composting and beekeeping units.The session commenced with a welcome address by Sandeep Yadav, scientist-D and head of ICFRE-BRC, who provided a detailed briefing on the Centre’s ongoing activities and its commitment to promoting sustainable livelihoods through scientific interventions.Joining the inaugural session via video conferencing, Nitin Kulkarni, director of the Rain Forest Research Institute (RFRI), Jorhat, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the ecological synergy between waste management and agriculture. Kulkarni stressed the role of vermin-composting in promoting organic farming and sustaining long-term soil fertility. He also underscored the indispensable role of bees as pollinators and the high value of honey in the pharmaceutical industry.The chief guest, JH Lalbiakliana, chief executive officer of the Mizoram Khadi and Village Industries Board (MKVIB), elaborated on the board’s extensive work in providing apiculture training. He noted that transitioning to scientific beekeeping practices is essential for maximising yield and ensuring sustainability. Lalbiakliana also said apiculture is a key focus area under the “Hand Holding Policy”, a major component of the Mizoram govt’s flagship programme aimed at strengthening the local economy.Guest of honour PC Vanlalpeki, local council member of Bethlehem Vengthlang, encouraged participants to view these green skills as a pathway to financial independence. She highlighted the growing importance of self-employment opportunities in the modern economy through specialised skill development.The inaugural programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Subhaprada Behera, scientist-B at ICFRE-BRC, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and participants for their commitment to promoting sustainable environmental practices.
