The CSIR–National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR–NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram based constituent laboratory of CSIR will demonstrate its commitment to translating scientific research into societal and industrial impact through a technology transfer ceremony “CSIR-NIIST Tech Connect: From Lab to Market” scheduled at 3pm on 18 February 2026 at Anusandhan Bhawan, CSIR Headquarters, New Delhi.

The event will witness the transfer of multiple indigenously developed, industry-ready technologies from CSIR–NIIST to leading industry partners, underscoring CSIR’s role in strengthening innovation-led collaborations. Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR and Director General, CSIR will be the Chief Guest for the event while Commodore Amit Rastogi (Retd.), Chairman & Managing Director, NRDC, and Shri Vikas Gupta, Global Head, R&D, Tata Consumer Products, will attend as Guests of Honor. The programme is coordinated by Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan, Director, CSIR-NIIST.

Major highlight of the event will the official release of Low GI, micronutrient- and protein-rich designer rice developed by CSIR-NIIST to address nutritional security and lifestyle-related health challenges. The technology will be transferred to TATA Consumer Products Limited and SS Soul Foods, Tamil Nadu.

Rice feeds more than half of the global population, particularly in Asia and Africa, yet polished white rice is associated with high postprandial blood glucose levels and rising type 2 diabetes. Simultaneously, protein and micronutrient deficiencies—often termed “hidden hunger”—remain widespread despite adequate calorie intake. Addressing this dual challenge requires improving the nutritional quality of rice without altering dietary habits. CSIR–NIIST, Thiruvananthapuram has developed a high-protein, low glycaemic index (GI) rice fortified with essential micronutrients. The innovation enhances protein content, moderates carbohydrate digestibility for better glycaemic response, and provides nutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to help bridge dietary gaps.

The Tata Transformation Prize (2024) was awarded to Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan for developing the designer rice. Two technology transfer agreements related to this innovation will be formalized during the event which marks a significant step toward large-scale production and wider consumer access, enabling the transformation of a traditional staple into a nutritionally smarter food that supports both metabolic health and malnutrition mitigation.

Among other technologies being transferred is an indigenous coffee crema technology developed by CSIR-NIIST that enables stable and long-lasting foam formation, an important factor in coffee aroma and sensory experience, offering opportunities for the growing coffee and beverage industry.

Another innovation is a bio-based cardanol polyol modified polyurethane dispersion technology, a green alternative to petroleum-based binders, demonstrating enhanced mechanical strength, stability, and non-wettability, with applications in leather finishing and metallic coatings.

The event will also feature two post-harvest technologies for fruits and vegetables, addressing the challenge that 30-40% of horticultural produce in India is lost between harvest and consumption, while only about 10% undergoes value addition. These include osmotic dehydrated fruit bites and a ready-to-cook vegetable mix, both developed using Refrigerated Adsorption Dehumidified Dryer (RADD) technology, enabling nutrient retention, extended shelf life, and energy-efficient processing.

CSIR-NIIST will also transfer JAIVAM, an engineered microbiome for rapid aerobic composting, which enables faster composting without odour, leachate, or fly issues. The technology has already seen four industrial licenses and has been approved by the Kerala State Suchitwa Mission, demonstrating its relevance for decentralized waste management and circular economy initiatives.

Two plant-based leather alternative technologies derived from agricultural biomass (cactus) will also be transferred. Developed using eco-friendly protocols and advanced finishing techniques, these materials match the appearance and performance of animal leather while enabling agri-waste valorization and sustainable manufacturing. The technology has already seen 15 technology transfers and four commissioned production plants, and has received the PETA Fashion Award 2025, along with international certifications from Eurofins, Bureau Veritas, and SGS.

The event will further witness the signing of a project MoU on the development of low-sodium salt formulations and elemental imaging of salt crystals. CSIR-NIIST is developing Designer Hollow Salt crystals that can reduce sodium content by up to 86% while maintaining saltiness perception, addressing public health concerns related to hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. C. Anandharamakrishnan, Director, CSIR–NIIST, said, “CSIR-NIIST Tech Connect - From Lab to Market reflects our commitment to ensuring that scientific research moves beyond the laboratory to create tangible societal and industrial impact. Through strong partnerships with industry and commercialization agencies, we are accelerating the translation of innovations in nutrition, sustainability, materials, and circular economy into technologies that benefit people and the nation.”

The event will bring together senior leadership from CSIR, representatives from industry, scientists, and stakeholders to highlight the importance of academia–industry partnerships in accelerating the commercialization of indigenous technologies.

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NK

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