Arunachal: Yak-Based Value Addition Training Begins in Dirang
ICAR–National Research Centre on Yak has launched a training-cum-hands-on programme at Dirang to promote value addition and entrepreneurship among yak-rearing farmers.
DIRANG- The ICAR–National Research Centre (NRC) on Yak, Dirang, launched a Training-cum-Hands-on Practices Programme on Value Addition of Yak-Based Products on January 27 at its Dirang campus, aimed at strengthening and commercialising yak husbandry in high-altitude regions of Arunachal Pradesh.
The programme was inaugurated in the presence of the Director of ICAR–NRC on Yak, Dr Mihir Sarkar. It is part of ongoing efforts to enhance income opportunities for yak herders through scientific processing and improved market access.
A batch of 10 yak-rearing farmers from the Jang circle of Tawang district is participating in the training. The participants represent villages including Mago, Thingbu, Mukto, Rho, and Jangda, and were deputed by the Department of Animal Husbandry, Tawang, indicating institutional support for capacity building at the grassroots level.
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Welcoming the participants, Course Director Dr D. Medhi emphasised the importance of value addition in improving farmers’ income and making yak husbandry a sustainable livelihood option. He noted that scientific processing methods and hygienic practices can significantly enhance the quality, shelf life and marketability of yak-based products.
The training provides hands-on exposure to hygienic preparation and value addition of yak milk products such as churpi, paneer, ghee and churkham, along with processing of yak hair into products including carpets and mats. The programme seeks to integrate traditional practices with modern scientific techniques to improve economic returns for farmers.
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The training will continue until February 5, 2026. Officials said that similar programmes are expected to include additional farmers from other parts of the Tawang circle in future sessions.
The initiative, undertaken by ICAR–NRC on Yak in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry, Veterinary and Dairy Development, Arunachal Pradesh, underscores efforts to promote skill development, entrepreneurship and livelihood enhancement among yak herders in the fragile high-altitude ecosystems of the state.
