NRDC Transfers Moringa Food Technologies to Odisha MSME Unit
In a significant development for the Viksit Odisha vision, the National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) has officially transferred three advanced moringa-based food technologies to a Bhubaneswar-based MSME unit. This strategic move is set to strengthen the state's ongoing push for innovation-led growth within the micro, small, and medium enterprise sector, fostering technological sovereignty and economic resilience.
Licensing Agreements Exchanged in High-Profile Ceremony
The licensing agreements were formally exchanged on Wednesday during a ceremony attended by key officials. The event saw the presence of Rasmita Panda, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the MSME department, Commodore Amit Rastogi (retd), CMD of NRDC, and Surekha Routray, Managing Director of the recipient company. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in bridging the gap between research and commercial application, with NRDC officials, led by regional head Bijay Kumar Sahu, emphasizing that the partnership will accelerate the commercialization of research-driven products and empower local entrepreneurs across Odisha.
Three Innovative Moringa-Based Food Technologies
The three technologies transferred include:
- Low-fat expanded green snack: A healthy snack option designed to be both nutritious and appealing.
- Moringa chikki: A traditional Indian sweet bar enriched with moringa for enhanced protein and nutrient content.
- Instant moringa-based products: This category encompasses a versatile range of items such as dip, debittered leaf powder, chutney powder, and beverage mix, all formulated to be shelf-stable and rich in essential nutrients.
These innovations are specifically engineered to deliver high-protein, nutrient-rich, and long-lasting food options, leveraging one of Odisha's most abundant natural resources—moringa. By utilizing this locally available superfood, the technologies aim to promote sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing practices within the state.
Building a Robust Moringa Value Chain
Officials highlighted that this partnership is expected to build a robust value chain around moringa, spurring the growth of new MSMEs and encouraging nutrition-focused manufacturing. The initiative aligns with Odisha's broader economic goals, as NRDC remains committed to fostering technological sovereignty and supporting the state's rise as an innovation-driven economy. This transfer not only enhances local entrepreneurship but also positions Odisha as a hub for food technology innovation, potentially creating new job opportunities and boosting the regional economy through increased production and export capabilities.
The collaboration underscores a forward-looking approach to industrial development, where research institutions like CSIR-CFTRI and NRDC work hand-in-hand with MSMEs to translate scientific advancements into market-ready products. As Odisha continues to advance its Viksit Odisha vision, such initiatives are crucial for driving sustainable growth and ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of technological and economic progress in India.
