Minister unveils biochar unit at Palampur CSIR, stresses on sustainable tech

Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh visited the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. He was warmly received by the institute’s Director, Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav, and staff members.

During the visit, Dr Yadav briefed the minister about the institute’s cutting-edge research and technology development efforts, particularly under the CSIR Aroma, Floriculture and Phytopharmaceutical Missions, which are positively impacting rural livelihoods and aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

The Director of NIFT, Kangra, also attended the programme and emphasised the growing importance of creativity and design thinking in contemporary times.

The minister appreciated CSIR-IHBT’s efforts in strengthening the region’s bio-economy and acknowledged the institute’s role in translating scientific innovations into grassroots applications. He stressed the importance of developing environmentally sustainable and user-friendly technologies that are widely accessible. He extended his best wishes for the institute’s future endeavours.

Prior to this, Giriraj Singh planted a tree sapling as a part of “Ek Ped Maa Kae Naam” initiative and visited various facilities of the institute. He also inaugurated the biochar and compost booster production unit in the institute.

On the occasion, the institute signed a technology transfer agreement with Komal Innovation and Wellness Initiatives, Nagrota Bagwan, Kangra. Also a memorandum of understanding for collaborative research on fibre and natural colours was signed with NIFT, Kangra. An agreement with Vijya Wellness and Biosciences LLP, Dera Mandi, New Delhi on advanced technical textile solutions was also signed.

As a part of the programme, the minister launched beverages and food products prepared by startups, and distributed planting material of aromatic marigold chrysanthemum to farmer clusters.