BHU Launches Faculty Training on Functional Dairy Foods
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has launched a 21-day advanced faculty training programme focused on functional dairy foods, highlighting the growing role of health-oriented dairy products in India. The programme, titled “Functional Dairy Foods: From Concept to Commercialisation”, is organised by the Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology (DSFT) under the Institute of Agricultural Sciences (IAgSc). It is sponsored by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
Strengthening Skills for a Changing Dairy Market
The training programme brings together 15 scientists, assistant professors and academicians from ICAR-recognised institutes, state agricultural universities and allied institutions across India. Importantly, the initiative aims to strengthen applied research skills and industry-linked thinking. As consumer demand shifts towards nutrition, wellness and preventive health, functional dairy products are emerging as a key growth area.
Focus on Research, Innovation and Commercialisation
During the inaugural session, BHU Vice-Chancellor Prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi highlighted the need for innovation-led dairy education. He emphasised the role of universities in supporting value-added dairy development. Meanwhile, Prof Anil Kumar Chauhan, Senior Professor and Course Director, outlined the programme structure and objectives. He explained that the course connects core dairy science with real-world product development and market readiness.
Hands-on Exposure to Functional Dairy Technologies
The programme includes expert lectures, laboratory demonstrations, group discussions and technical sessions. In addition, participants will gain exposure to recent advancements in dairy processing and functional product formulation. The training also focuses on commercialisation pathways, regulatory considerations and product validation. As a result, faculty members can align academic research with industry needs more effectively.
Building Capacity for India’s Value-Added Dairy Future
India’s dairy sector is gradually moving beyond liquid milk towards probiotics, fortified products and nutraceutical dairy foods. Therefore, capacity-building initiatives like this ICAR-sponsored programme play a critical role. By equipping educators with updated knowledge and practical skills, the programme supports research-led growth and stronger industry-academia collaboration in the functional dairy segment.
