CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT), Bhubaneswar, successfully organized a two-day Bakery Skill Development Training Program on October 29–30, 2025, under the CSIR Integrated Skill Initiative. The program aimed at empowering rural youth and women by providing hands-on training in bakery production and entrepreneurship development.

The primary objective of the training was to equip participants with practical baking skills, food safety awareness, and business knowledge to promote self-employment opportunities in the rural and semi-urban food sectors. The initiative aligns with national missions such as Skill India Mission and Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, which focus on fostering local entrepreneurship and livelihood generation.

During the two-day training, participants received in-depth exposure to ingredient selection, dough formulation, baking techniques, product finishing, packaging, and hygiene management. The course content was designed to help participants start small-scale bakery units or collaborate in cooperative-based bakery ventures, contributing to rural economic sustainability.

A total of 34 participants took part in the program, including 24 women. Among them, three participants each belonged to the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, while eight participants were from the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.

The training concluded with an interactive session and exhibition of bakery products, showcasing the participants’ creativity and skills. Certificates of successful completion were awarded to all trainees, marking the culmination of a highly engaging and impactful program.

Speaking on the occasion, the coordinators Er. D. Singh, Senior Principal Scientist, and Er. S. K. Shanti, Senior Technical Officer, highlighted that such skill-based programs not only enhance self-reliance but also create opportunities for micro-entrepreneurship and local job generation.

The event concluded on a positive note, with enthusiastic feedback from participants and facilitators alike, reaffirming CSIR-IMMT’s continued commitment to promoting inclusive skill development and community empowerment through science and technology.