Science and Technology Entrepreneurs Park (STEP)

AREAS OF INTERVENTION

ORGANIC FARMING: Incorporation of biofertilizers or microbial inoculants in combination with organic manure for crop production can reduce the detrimental effects of the current agricultural practices in an eco-friendly manner and improve agricultural yield. We are involved in promoting the use of microbial inoculants such as biofertilizers, biopesticides, biocompost and vermicompost with a focus on building farmers confidence (Resource Personnel)
MUSHROOM CULTIVATION: Mushroom is an export commodity and has health benefits. Mushroom cultivation using agricultural waste is an opportunity for farmers and entrepreneurs and plays an important role in managing farm organic wastes. Training for commercial production of mushroom is imparted including post harvest processing and value addition.(Resource Personnel)
FOOD TECHNOLOGY: Food technology based activities are intended to develop novel convenience foods and dairy food products while ensuring quality systems in the food chain to ensure food safety. Products like instant gravy mixes and therapeutic yoghurt have been developed along with processing of the Traditional foods and recipes. New Preservation techniques of raw vegetables and fruits are also being devised to increase their shelf life with minimal processing (Resource Personnel)
NATURAL PRODUCTS: Natural products of microbial and plant origin in the form of secondary metabolites (biochemicals) has tremendous potential in rural and industrial development P and demands a great deal of attention for the improvement of agricultural sector. Microbial and plant derived products can be used as flavors, fragrances, SCP (Spirulina),ß-carotene (Dunaliella),in certain formulations providing protection against insects as biorepellents, control of obnoxious weeds as bioweedicides and in formulating biodiesel as an alternative fuel. (Resource Personnel)
BIOWASTE MANAGEMENT & RECYCLING : Intervention are being developed for efficient collection and transformation of the biodegradable garbage through biotechnological interventions into value added products for application in agriculture, horticulture and floriculture is one of another task for maintaining clean and healthy environment. (Resource Personnel)
PLANT TISSUE CULTURE: Plant tissue culture has enabled mass multiplication of commercially important plant species in a very short time and less space. Programmes are conducted in collaboration with TIFAC-CORE to encourage and impart training for establishment of tissue culture as a viable enterprise. The focus is on developing tissue culture protocols for floricultural, horticultural and medicinal plant species. (Resource Personnel)