A five-day Workshop-cum-Training Programme on “Product Certification and Capacity Building for Women SHG Members” under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Programme concluded on February 18 in Kargil.

The workshop witnessed the participation of MSME entrepreneurs and Women Self Help Group (SHG) members engaged in the food processing sector.

The programme was organised by the Industries & Commerce Department, UT Ladakh, in collaboration with the Food Safety Department, Kargil, at the Conference Hall of the District Industries Centre (DIC), Kargil.

Speaking on the occasion, Shakil Ahmad, Assistant Extension Officer, DIC Kargil, highlighted the growing importance of certification, quality assurance, branding, and market readiness in strengthening local enterprises. He stated that the RAMP initiative aims to promote the formalisation of MSMEs, enhance competitiveness, and ensure the long-term sustainability of grassroots enterprises. He also provided a detailed overview of the scheme’s objectives, institutional support mechanisms, and the range of assistance available to entrepreneurs.

Mohd Ali, Food Safety Officer, HQ Kargil, conducted an informative session on food safety compliance and emphasised the importance of obtaining registration under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). A live demonstration of the FSSAI registration process was carried out to familiarise participants with the required procedures and documentation.

The concluding day featured sessions on branding strategies, standardised labelling, and improved packaging techniques aimed at strengthening the market positioning of local products. Participants were introduced to innovative approaches adopted by emerging entrepreneurs from Ladakh, encouraging SHG members to scale up and modernise their ventures.

Nearly 40 SHG members and MSME representatives attended the programme and actively engaged in discussions throughout the workshop.

As part of the practical learning component, participants visited M/s Zilpa Chu Enterprises, where they observed the filtration and mineral water production process. Technical demonstrations on processing and packaging were conducted, followed by an interactive session addressing queries related to quality standards, product development, and packaging practices.

The Director, Industries & Commerce, UT Ladakh, appreciated the enthusiastic participation of the attendees and assured that similar capacity-building programmes would be organised in the near future to further strengthen the MSME sector in the region.