MoU signed for ‘kaddu chutney’ technology

Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has entered into an agreement with Iqbal Singh of Tarn Taran district for transfer of technology for the preparation of kaddu chutney. The chutney is categorised as a 'health-oriented product' and, therefore, the technology uses shakkar/jaggery as one of the ingredients instead of sugar. Dr NS Bains, Director of Research, PAU, signed the memorandum on behalf of the university. He applauded Dr Poonam Aggarwal Sachdev, Head Department of Food Science and Technology, for developing the technology. The training for the same was imparted and assisted by Rahul Gupta and Er Karanvir Gill, Research Associates of Food Industry Business Incubation Center, PAU. While giving information about the chutney, Iqbal Singh said the product would be cheaper than mango chutney and initially, it would be made available in 200 gm jars for sampling across stores in the state. He also plans to take PAU's advice regarding nutritional sampling of kaddu chutney to make consumers aware of its health benefits. Till date, the PAU has commercialised 36 technologies including products, seeds of hybrids etc. since 2012, revealed Dr SS Chahal, Technology, Marketing and IPR Cell, PAU. Dr GS Buttar, Additional Director, Extension, and Dr Ashok Kumar, former Director Research, were also present during the meeting. — TNS