A highly informative workshop on “Vettiver and Value-Added Products – An Entrepreneurial Approach” was successfully conducted on September 11, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The event was efficiently coordinated by Mrs. A. Subhashini, Assistant Professor, Department of Agricultural Engineering, and Mr. M. D. S. Raja Rupan, Department of Food Technology. The session, attended by over 100 students, featured Dr. N. Ezhili, Bioscience Research Coordinator, as the guest speaker.
The workshop commenced with a warm welcome by Ms. A. Gopika, Final Year, Pharmaceutical Technology. This was followed by a comprehensive lecture delivered by Mr. S. K. Babu, who began with an overview of the Eco Green Unit and its various projects, including areca leaf plate production, banana fibre products, banana mat weaving, coir pot making, handicrafts, and particularly, vettiver and its value-added products.
Mr. S. K. Babu elaborated on the challenges faced in the market, such as ensuring product safety, maintaining quality, and addressing the growing consumer demand for healthier and organic products. He provided detailed insights into vettiver cultivation, both in soil and using PVC pipes, and explained how the Eco Green Unit is adapting to consumer preferences for organic and eco-friendly products. He also shared his staffing and training practices, highlighting the importance of skill development.
Participants gained valuable insights into banana fibre products, the significance of vettiver cultivation, and the economic potential of vettiver-based value-added products. The session emphasized the need for continuous innovation to overcome market challenges and ensure the sustainability of organic and eco-friendly enterprises.
The workshop concluded with an engaging Q&A session, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the value of banana fibre and vettiver-based products. Ms. S. Mythilipriya, Final Year, Food Technology, delivered the Vote of Thanks to the resource person and the participants.
