150 attend workshop on Himalayan bio-economy

The Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), organised a one-day workshop titled “Bio-economy from the Himalayas: Linking Labs, Land and Industry” in Palampur on Friday.

The workshop aimed to strengthen the interface between scientific research, agriculture and industry to promote a sustainable bio economy in the Himalayan region. It brought together scientists, farmers, entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders for deliberations on harnessing bio-resources for economic growth and livelihood generation.

CSIR-IHBT Director Sudesh Kumar Yadav highlighted the institute’s contributions in developing bio resource-based technologies and promoting high-value crops.

Dr Shiv Kumar Sharma, national organising secretary of Vijnana Bharati, who attended the event as the chief guest, emphasised the need to revitalise India’s traditional knowledge systems and integrate these with modern science for wider societal benefit.

A key highlight of the event was the signing of multiple agreements to boost industry collaboration and technology transfer. A memorandum of understanding under the Smart Village Mission was signed with CNG Agro Care Private Limited. Two material transfer agreements were inked with Nishant Biotech, while technology transfer agreements were signed with Indiyum Foods Pvt Ltd and Bhikhta Biotech.

The institute distributed seeds of aromatic marigold to farmers. As many as 150 participants attended the programme.