Introduction

Quality Evaluation and Improvement (QEI) Division is engaged in research on fibre extraction, evaluation, quality assurance and grading. Up gradation of quality, evaluation of physiochemical properties of jute and allied fibres are the major contributions of this division including extraction of useful chemicals from agricultural by-products of fibre crops.

Divisional Mandate

a.  Conducting basic and strategic research for improvement of natural fibres through advanced techniques of fibre extraction, quality evaluation and development of instruments for quality assessment.

b.  Extraction, identification, characterization and application of bio-molecules from natural fibres and fibre-yielding plants.

Laboratory and Facilities

Quality Evaluation and Improvement Division has four well equipped laboratories. Research is carried out in the area of fibre extraction and processing, development of grading instruments, fibre quality assessment and bi product utilization and bio-processing. Some facilities at these labs are Well-equipped unique fibre quality testing laboratory having analogue and digital instruments for testing fibre quality parameters. Chemical Laboratory with Hi-tech equipment for chemical analysis of fibre and natural resources (HPLC, FTIR, AAS, GC, UV- Spectrophotometer, Nitrogen Auto-analyzer, Flame Photometer, Portable profile moisture meter, Mobile mapper etc., Jute leaf drier & mixer). Production unit of retting accelerator powder for advanced jute retting technology. Well-equipped microbiology laboratory (Gel Electrophoresis, Gel Documentation, Fermenter, High resolution Microscope, refrigerated centrifuge and Thermocycler/PCR) for identification, screening, characterization, production and storing of microbial cultures to develop environment friendly jute retting technology.

The Division has three sections or laboratory

       i.  Fibre quality testing laboratory having analogue and digital instruments for testing fibre quality parameters. The laboratory has been recently accredited by NABL, New Delhi for testing fibre quality parameters of jute.

       ii.Chemical Laboratory with instruments like HPLC, AAS, GC, UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, Nitrogen Auto-analyser, Flame Photometer, Portable profile moisture meter, Mobile mapper, High speed automatic Homogenizer, viscometer. The central chemistry laboratory has been recently accredited by NABL, New Delhi for carrying out tests for fibre composition analyses.

 iii.Microbiology laboratory with Gel Electrophoresis System, Gel Documentation System, Chemiluminescence Imager, Thermal Cycler, Electroporator, Fermenter,/bioreactor Microscope, Refrigerated/non-refrigerated high speed centrifuge, Multi-parameter Water Quality Tester, High Energy Sonicator, Type I & II Water Purification System, Walk-in-cold room for screening, identification, characterisation, production and storing of microbial cultures to develop environment friendly jute retting technology and microbe based green extraction protocol.

Divisional Achievements

§  Best quality jute fibre of North 24 Parganas district was found to be associated with availability of higher quantity of specific macro and micro-nutrients.

§  Iron content influenced the heaviness/ bulk density of the fibre.

§  Available potassium showed positive correlation with the fibre strength.

§  Fibre quality varied from TDN3+35!!!%↑to TDN1+10!!!%↑ in North 24 Parganas, TDN4+30!!!%↑to TDN2 in Nadia, TDN3+26!!!%↑ to TDN1 in Murshidabad and TDN3+60!!!%↑ to TDN2 in Jalpaiguri district.

§  Significant reduction in jute area has been observed in the Murshidabad district using Sentinel satellite data in the year 2019.    

Research Accomplishment (Last 5 years)

a.      Ongoing Institute Projects

1. i. Upgradation of automatic jute grading system (PI: Dr. Nagesh Kumar T/Co-PI: Dr. B. Saha and Dr. P. Srivastava)
2. ii. Inventory of natural fibre resources and spatial variability of fibre quality of jute, mesta, ramie, sisal and flax (PI: Dr. Biplab Saha/ Co-PIs: Dr.Nilimesh Mridha and Mr. Sujai Das).
3. iii.Development and Refinement of Retting Technologies for Sustenance of Famers’ Income (PI: Dr. Deb Prasad Ray/Co-PIs: ), Avijit Das, Manjunatha BS, Biplab Saha and Deepak Nayak (CISH-Maldah)
4. iv.Exploring microbial production of bacterial cellulosic fibres and its applications (PI: Dr. Atul Singha/Co-PIs: Dr. Avijit Das, Dr. Santanu Basak)

Ongoing External Funded Projects

 i.     Quality control of natural fibres under all india network project on jute and allied fibres (PI: Dr. Avijit Das/ Co-PI: Dr. Nagesh Kumar T)

1.  ii.   Development of a minimal water retting technology of jute (PI: Dr. Avijit Das/Co-PIs: Dr. Atul Singha, Dr. Deb Prasad Ray, Dr. Prateek Srivastav (NINFET) and Dr. Bijan Majumder (CC-PI: CRIJAF).
2. iii. Upscaling of an eco-friendly microbial extraction method of keratin from waste wool and its different technical applications (PI: Dr. Avijit Das/ Co-PIs: Dr. Manjunatha BS, Dr. DP Ray, Dr. RK Ghosh, KK
3. Samanta, Dr. L. Ammayappan and Dr. DB Shakyawar)
4. iv. Natural fibre waste to planting growth media: development, characterization and evaluation in soilless crop production system (PI: Dr. Nilimesh Mridha/Co-PIs: DB Shakyawar, Avijit Das, Atul Singha and Manik Bhowmick)

c.       Completed Projects (Both)

                             i.         Development of technology for extraction and characterization of nano-cellulose from jute caddis/jute stick (PI: Dr. Deb Prasad Ray/Co-PI: Dr. R. K. Ghosh)

                             ii.        Development Of Digital Hairiness Meter For Jute Yarn (PI: Dr. Gautam Roy/Co_PIs: Dr. SC Saha and Dr. Gautam Bose)

                            iii.       Handy Jute Fibre Bundle Strngth Tester For Farmers (PI: Dr. SC Saha /Co-PI: Gautam Ray and Shri Amitava Sarkar)

                            iv.        Development Of Accelerated Retting Technology For Jute And Mesta Plant (PI: Dr. Deb Prasad Ray/Co-PI: Dr. SC Saha and Dr. RK Ghosh)

                            v.          Jute mapping and estimation of fibre quality (PI: Dr. Biplab Saha/Co-PI: Shri Sujai Das and Dr. Koushik Manna)

                            vi.        Prospects of bacteria from termite for utilization in retting of jute (PI: Dr. Manjunatha BS/Co-PI: Dr. Avijit Das)

Research Publications (Last 5 years)

1.    Saha,B.,  Nageshkumar, T, Saha, S. C.,  Roy, G., Sarkar, A., Sardar, G,. and Mandal, J., 2022, Development and Evaluation of Handy Jute Fibre Bundle Strength Tester, Journal of scientific and industrial research, 81(02): 113-117

2.    Manna, K., Saha,B. and Kundu, M.,(2022)Study of Non-woven Jute Agrotextile Mulches on Soil Water, Temperature and Nutrient Status in root zone in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) Cultivation. International Journal of Bio-resource and Stress Management, 13(4):348-356. HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.23910/1.2022.2380.

3.    Ray DP, Ghosh RK, Saha B, Sarkar A, Singha A, Mridha N, Das I, Sardar G, Mondal J, Manjunatha BS, Shakyawar DB (2022) Accelerated retting technology for the extraction of golden fibre from the Indian Tossa jute (Corchorus sp.) Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 380, 135063,  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.135063.

4.    Mridha,N.,  Saha ,B., Bera,T., Sarkar, S., and Manna, K.(2023).Near real-time mapping of jute (Corchorus sp.) area using multi-temporal Sentinel-1 intensity data over the central part of West Bengal, India. Journal of Spatial Science, DOI: 10.1080/14498596.2023.2211951

5.    Nageshkumar T., Srivastava, P., Saha, B., Sengupta, S., Shakyawar, D.B., Sardar, G., Mondal, J. (2023) Defects identification in raw jute fibre using convolutional neural network models. The Journal of the Textile Institute. DOI:10.1080/00405000.2023.2199489

6.    Mridha, Nilimesh., Ray Deb Prasad., Saha, Biplab. , Rakesh Kumar Ghosh, Avijit Das, Manik Bhowmick and D B Shakyawar (2022). Natural fibre based non-woven agro-textile mulch: A boon for natural farming. Indian Farming 72 (12): 15-18

7.    Manjunatha, B. S., Ghosh, R. K., Mridha, N., Singha, A., Das, A., Ammayappan, L., Ray, D. P., Das, A., Saha B. and Shakyawar D. B. (2021). A Review on Microbial Mediated Retting of Jute Plant. Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, Vol. 7, No. 2, January 2021.p-49-54.

8.    Ghosh, R. K., Ray, D. P., Chakraborty, S., Saha, B., Manna, K., Tewari, A., & Sarkar, S. (2020). Cadmium removal from aqueous medium by jute stick activated carbon using response surface methodology: factor optimisation, equilibrium, and regeneration. International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 1–18. DOI:10.1080/03067319.2019.1700964

9.    Manna, K., Kundu, M.C., Saha, B. & Ghosh G.K. 2018.Effect of nonwoven jute agrotextile mulch on soil health and productivity of broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) in lateritic soil Environment Monitoring and Assessment, 190(2):1-10

10.   Saha, B., Manna, K., Saha, S.C. and Sarkar, S. (2018). Application of geo-informatics for soil-nutrient and jute fibre quality mapping in Barasat-II block of West Bengal. Int.J.Curr.Microbiol.App.Sci7(12): 2854-2866.

11.   Saha, B., Santra, P., Dey, P. and Singh, G. (2018). Spatial variability of soil physic-chemical properties under silvicultural system in alkali soil. Journal of Agricultural Physics 17(1):45-57.

12.   Islam A., Sikka A. K., Saha B. and Singh Anamika. 2012.  Streamflow Response to Climate Change in the Brahmani River Basin, India. Water Resources Management. 26 (6): 1409-1424

13.   Islam A., Sikka, A. K., Saha B. and Anamika 2009. Modeling Sensitivity of Streamflow to Climate Change in the Brahmani River Basin. Journal of Agricultural Engineering,ISAE, 46(4): 49-53

14.   Saha, B, Sikka, A.K.and Samra, J.S. 2006. Conservation practices for sustainable production from rainfed areas of Punjab Shiwaliks International Journal of Tropical Agriculture Vol.24 (3-4): 611-621

15.   Saha, B., Samra, J.S., Singh, Kehar and Juneja, M.L. 1999. Physicochemical properties of soil under different land use systems. J. Indian Soc. Soil Sci. 47(1):133-140

16.   Saha, B., Samra, J.S. and Mittal, S.P. 1995. Infiltration characteristics of some established land use systems at Shiwalik foothills of North India. Indian Journal of Soil Conservation 23 (2): 98-102

17.   Das, S., Shambhu V. B. and Saha, B. (2018). Case Study: Development of Mobile Operating System International Journal of Computer Science and Information Technology Research ISSN 2348-120X (online) Vol. 6, Issue 1, pp: (46-49) www.researchpublish.com

18.   Manna,K., Kundu, M.C., Saha, B.(2023).  Residual impact of nonwoven jute agro‑textile mulch on soil health and productivity of maize (Zea mays L.) in lateritic soil. Biomass Conversion and Biorefnery. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13399-023-04437-w

19.   Saha, B., Sarma, K.S.S., Das, D.K. 2006. Hydrological characteristics of IGNP command area of western Rajasthan, India I. Infiltration and redistribution. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture Vol.24 (3-4): 661-670.

21. Singh, S.S., Prasad, L.K.P. , Subrhmyanyam, D., Saha, B. and Singh, R.D. 2006. Influence of irrigation schedule and nutrient management on growth and yield attributes of wheat in alluvial plains of Bihar. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture 24 (1-2): 205-217

22. Saha, B., Prasad, L.K., Haris, Abdul A, Sikka, A.K and Batta, R.K. 2006. Effect of Geo-Textile mulch on soil moisture, temperature and yield of vegetable crops grown in alluvial plains of Bihar. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture 24 (1-2): 153-157

23.  Saha,B., Sikka, A.K. Arya, S.L. , Mittal , S.P. 2006. Integrated watershed management for resource conservation in shivalik foot hills. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture Vol.24 (3-4): 624-630

24. Saha, B., Prasad, L.K., Haris, A.A. and Batta, R.K. 2006 Optimization of nutrient application for yield maximization of rice in submerged conditions in Patna district of Bihar. Agro-pedology Vol.16 (2):117-121

25. Saha, B., Prasad, L.K., Haris, A.A. and Batta, R.K. 2004. Optimization of nutrient application for yield maximization of rice in submerged conditions in Bihar. Indian Agriculturist 48(1&2):1-7.

26. Prasad, L.K. and Saha, B., Haris, A., Rajan, K. and Singh, S.R. 2002. Critical grain nitrogen content for optimizing nitrogen and water rice (Oryza sativa). Online Journal of Biological Sciences 2 (11): 746-747.

27.  Saha, B., Sarma, K.S.S., Das, D.K. 2006. Hydrological characteristics of IGNP command area of western Rajasthan, India II. Hydraulic Conductivity. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture. Vol.24 (3-4): 687-696.

28.  Saha, B., Sarma, K.S.S., Das, D.K. 2006. Hydrological characteristics of IGNP command area of western Rajasthan, India III. Water retention Characteristics. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture. Vol.24 (3-4): 672-685.

29. Upadhyaya, A., Singh, A.K., Bhatnagar, P.R., Saha, B and Singh, S.K. 2006. Problems and prospects of agricultural production in Mokama group of tals in Bihar. International Journal of Tropical Agriculture Vol.24(3-4): 495-500

30. Garg,R.N., Majumder,S.P., Chattoraj D., Chakraborty D., Singh, R., Kumari, M., Saha B., Trivedi S.M., kaur R., Kumble K.H and Singh R.K. 2009 Assessment of soil physical conditions: Evaluation of a single value index. Journal of Agricultural Physics, 9:9-19

31. Singha, A., Das, A., Manjunatha, B.S., Bhowmick, M., Ray, D.P., Thakur, A.K., Saha, B., Das, R., Das, R., Das A., Shakyawar, D.B, (2022). Softening of Barky Root Cuttings of Jute by Pectinolytic Bacterial Strains for Better Spinability and Industrial Uses. Economic Affairs. 67(4): 439-444, DOI: 10.46852/0424-2513.4.2022.9

32. Saha, B. and Gupta, J.P. 1996. Physical characteristics of aridisols as affected by ley farming systems. Annals of Arid zone 36 (1): 25-30.

Introduction

Transfer of Technology division disseminates the institute's technologies, develops entrepreneurship through providing the necessary technical training and capacity building, arranges the front-line demonstrations and participates in different exhibitions, fairs and Mela for promoting the developed technologies to their stake holders. It also develops the project profile of viable technologies and rendering technical assistance for incubators.

Divisional Mandate

·         To carryout research on demand driven machineries/products/processes in natural fibre sector

·         To conduct Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs)

·         To organize/participate in exhibitions / Melas / Fairs

·         To impart skill development training on jute diversified products

·         To manage, protect and to study the impact of the institute developed technologies

·         To create start-ups in natural fibre sector through business incubation

Divisional Achievements

§  Commercialization of Institute Technology

§  Entrepreneurship development by providing training and capacity building

§  Self-sponsored training programme: Trained 370 nos. of budding youths through 24 self-sponsored training programmes.

§  Agri-Business Incubation (ABI) project sponsored training programme: Trained 960 trainees from various districts of West Bengal, Bihar, Odissa, Andhra Pradesh, Utter Pradesh through 48 nos. of training programmes.

§  Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP) scheme sponsored training programme: Trained 1020 nos. of people belongs to SC/ST community through 50 training programmes.

§  Organizing National Level Training on “Production and retting technology of Jute/Mesta/Ramie/Sunnhemp including other related aspects” sponsored by National Food Security Mission (NFSM)

§  Conduct 36 nos. of Front-Line Demonstration (FLD) for the Institute’s developed technologies where 1955 nos. of villagers are benefited.

§  4 nos. of Training, 19 nos. of awareness program and 07 nos of FLD conducted under NEH Scheme where 1130 nos. of farmers benefited.

§  Input provided in various area like Animal feed/ feed supplement Animal medicine Animal Cage, accessories Jute Mulch/ Jute-yak yarn Angora rabbit Hand spinning/ Wool clipper Jute mulch kit under NEH programme.

§  Common facility center: Common facility has been created at North Sikkim for providing handloom and other related machine for manufacturing the woolen diversified product. The training for 10 trainees was provided on weaving and designing aspect of the shawl.

§  Participating in 33 different exhibitions, fairs, melas, etc. for promoting institute developed technologies.

§  Developed 43 nos. of project profile for Farmer/Student/Start up Artisan / NGO/Trust/ SHGs / Registered Society/ Proprietorship Company and 19 nos. of project profile for Corporate Sector / Organizations/ R&D Institutes/ Partnership Company of viable technologies and rendering technical assistance for incubator.

Research Acomplishment

On-going Institute Projects

·         AST/TOT/2021-01: Development of Semi -Automatic Power Ribboner, Decorticator And Suitable Retting Tank For Extraction Of Bast Fibre. PI : Dr. V. B. Shambhu

·         AST/TOT/2021-03 Development of The ICT Based System For Promotion And Transfer Of Institute Developed Technologies. PI : Shri Sujai Das;

·         Development of BIS standard for institute developed mechanical jute fibre extractors. PI: Dr. V.B. Shambhu 

·         AST/YS/2023-2: Development of a solar dryer for drying of jute fibres. PI: Sh. H. Baite

·         PDQA/TOT/NTTM/2023-09: Development of jute bags for protection and quality preservation of stored seeds. PI.: Dr. L.K. Nayak,

·         BPU/C R P – NINFET - 06: Extraction, Quality Evaluation, By-Product Utilization And Development of High Value Products From Pineapple Leaf, Indian Flax and Himalayan Nettle Fibre. PI: Dr. A. N. Roy

·         CBED/TOT/2021-11: Popularization Of Institute Developed Technologies Through Different Activities. P. I.: Dr. L. K. Nayak,   

·         CBED/TOT/2022-07: Trademarks Development of ICAR-NINFET Innovations For Licensing And Promotion Through Prospective Entrepreneurs. P. I.: Dr. S. B. Roy

·         CBED/TOT/2023-04: Design & development of different bag, file, folder and fashion garment from jute-based fabric & their market feasibility. P. I.: Er. H. Baite

·         CBED/NAIF: Agri Business Incubation. P. I.: Dr. A. N. Roy,  

·         CBED/NFSM/2022-08: National Level Trainings (NLTs) & Front-Line Demonstrations (FLDs) On Alternate Retting Technologies Under National Food Security Mission (NFSM)-Commercial Crops. P. I.: Dr. L. K. Nayak

On-going Externally Funded Projects

Completed Projects

Research Publications

§  Baite, H., Samanta, A.K., Bhaumik, N.S. and   Mallick, P.  2022. Optimization of dyeing process variables to improve dyeability of cotton fabric, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 8(2):59-64.

§  Das, S., Mridha, N., Shrivastava, P., 2022. Application of Internet of Things (IoT) in Fashion Industry, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 8(2): 55-58.

§  Das, S. and Nath, K.G., 2021 Production of raw jute fibre and distribution of industry in India, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 7(2):37-48.

§  Das, S., Nayak, L.K., Ammayappan. and Kundu, S., 2021, Role of Social Media in Agriculture Extension, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 8(1):7-20.

§  Das, S.,2021. Development of Android mobile App for jute & allied fibre, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 6(2):15-24.

§  Nayak L. K., Debnath, S., Shambhu V. B., Swain K. C., Baite H., and Kundu T. K.,2020. Extraction of flax and sisal fibre through improved extractor and their chemical characterization, Journal of Indian Society of Coastal Agricultural Research, 39(1):102-109.

§  Nayak, L.K., and Ammayappan, L. 2021. An overview on utilization of Date-palm leaf for paper, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 8(1): 1-6

§  Nayak, L.K., Roy, A.N., Ray, D.P., Debnath, S., Shambhu, V.B., Das, S., Bhowmick, M., and Kundu, T.K., 2021. Hands-on training programmes under SCSP scheme of ICAR-NINFET: An Analysis, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 8(1): 53-58.

§  Baite H, Samanta AK, Bhaumik NS, Mallick P, and Samanta KK, 2019. Study on the Effect of Dyeing Process Variables on Soyabean Treated Jute fabric,  Indian Journal of Natural Fibres,  5 (2):23-29 .

§  Das, S, Bhowmick, M, and Kundu, T.K,   An overview of analysis of jute yarn diameter irregularity using computer vision and Artificial neural network, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 6 (1): -65.

§  Nayak, L.K, Debnath, S, Shambhu, V.B. and Baite, H, 2019. Extraction and application of pineapple leaf fibre, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 5(2): 31-36.

§  Shambhu, V.B, Thakur, A. and Nayak, L.K, 2020, Technology for extraction of ribbons/barks from jute & mesta plants – A Review, Journal of Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America, 51 (2): 92.

§  Shambhu, V.B, Thakur, A.K. and Nayak, L.K, 2019. Separation of green bark from jute and Mesta plants by an improved power ribboner, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 5(2):37-43.

§  Thakur A K, Shambhu V B & Singha A, 2019. Artificial tank for improved retting by jute ribboner. Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 5(2):45-51

§  Shambhu, V. B, 2020. Design and development of low-cost multi-row manual jute seed drill, Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America, 51(2): 46-51.

§  Nayak L.K, and Baite H, 2018. Value addition to sisal leaf through extraction of fibre, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 5 (1): 77-82.

§  Thakur, A.K., Singh, I.S, and Shambhu V.B, 2019. Drying characteristics of plum tomato under different physical treatments for producing powder. Journal of Agricultural Engineering, 56(4): 258-268

§  Roy A.N., Samanta K.K, and Patra K, 2019. Physico-chemical properties of black yak fibre and its modification for blending with jute fibre, Journal of Natural Fibres, 16 (2): 225-236.

§  Shambhu V.B, and Thakur A.K, 2019. Laboratory and field performance of manual seed drill for sowing jute and tiny seeds. Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences 89 (1): 129–132.

§  Shambhu V.B., and Thakur A.K, 2018. Functional performance of a manually operated seed drill for jute. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences. 7(6): 52-59.

Introduction

The Research and Development (R&D) Unit came into existence in November 2020, as per Office Order No. 16(60)/ Adm.I dated: 10.11.2020.

Research and Development Unit engaged in research on design and development of machinery/ prototype, equipment, and instruments based on machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) for automatic data acquisition, analysis, decision making and controlling the various tasks using different algorithms and mathematical models. This unit also carries the applied research in the field of design and development of mechanical extractors for various natural fibres, automation in fibre extraction and application of sensors and instruments for performance evaluation of fibre extractors.

Divisional Mandate

·         To carry out research and development on technology and machinery for harvesting and extraction of natural fibre.

·         To conduct research related to post-harvest processing & value addition and energy management in the field of natural fibre.

Laboratory and Facilities

This unit has all the modern facilities with the latest machinery setup. There are 500 sqm area available to implement various ideas related to the development of technology and machinery for post-harvest processing & value addition of natural fibre.

Instrument & Machinery Developed

Research Publications

§  Shambhu, V.B., Thakur, A.K., Nayak, L.K., Nageshkumar T.,  and Shrivastava. P. 2021. A review on Extraction of Barks / Ribbons from Jute and Mesta Plants through Mechanical Process, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 7( 2) :31-36.

§  Shambhu, V.B, Thakur, A. and Nayak, L.K, 2020, Technology for extraction of ribbons/barks from jute & mesta plants – A Review, Journal of Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America, 51 (2): 92.

§  Shambhu, V.B, Thakur, A.K. and Nayak, L.K, 2019. Separation of green bark from jute and Mesta plants by an improved power ribboner, Indian Journal of Natural Fibres, 5(2):37-43.

§  Shambhu, V. B, 2020. Design and development of low-cost multi-row manual jute seed drill, Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America, 51(2): 46-51.

§  Shambhu V.B, and Thakur A.K, 2019. Laboratory and field performance of manual seed drill for sowing jute and tiny seeds. Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences 89 (1): 129–132.

§  Shambhu V.B., and Thakur A.K, 2018. Functional performance of a manually operated seed drill for jute. International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences. 7(6): 52-59

§  Shambhu, V.B., Nayak, L.K., Sharma, R.D. and Thakur, A. K. 2021 Remi kiupyogita. Poorvottar Bharti - an officiathindi magazine of ICAR-RCNER, Meghalaya.  6:  32-34.

§  Shambhu, V.B., Thakur, A.K. and Nayak, L.K. 2021. Jute ebang Mesta Poudho Ke Upar Chhal Utar ne Ke Adhunik Tarike, DEBANJALI, 7: 72-74.

§  Shambhu V.B, and Thakur A.K, 2019. Jute evam annay chhote aakar ke beej bone ki hasth – chalit unnat mashin se karein aaye mein vridhi.  Devanjali, 5: 14-16.

§  Shambhu V.B, and Thakur A.K, 2019. Jute kisano ki aaya main esthirtha aur vridhi ke liye upayukkat evam kam lagat vali beej bone ki machine. Laksha, 1: 58-60.

§  Shambhu V.B, Thakur AK and Ahirwal KL, 2018. Jute evam mesta se rese nikalne kin unnat taknik. Modern Kheti, October 2018:44-45

§  Shambhu V.B, Thakur AK and Sharma RD, 2018.  Jute evam mesta nishkarshan ke liye unnat taknik. Devanjali, 4:24-25.

§  Shambhu V.B, Thakur A.K, and Nayak L.K, Improved power ribboner for separation of green bark from jute and Mesta plants, pp.8-15.

§  Shambhu V.B, Thakur A.K, and Nayak L.K, Extraction of fibre from jute and Mesta plants through ribboning, pp. 8-14.

Research Accomplishment

On-going Projects

1.       Project Title: Development of Automatic Power Ribboner, Decorticator and Suitable Retting Tank for Extraction of Bast Fibre.

PI: Dr. V.B. Shambhu, Principal Scientist

Co-PI: Er. Prateek Shrivastava, Scientist; Dr. Nagesahkumar T., Scientist; Er. Manisha Jagadale, Scientist; and Dr. L. K. Nayak, Principal Scientist

2.       Project Title: Design and Development of Walking-Type Power Operated Jute Crop Harvester

PI: Er. Prateek Srivastava, Scientist

Co-PI: Dr. V.B. Shambhu, Principal Scientist; Dr. Nagesahkumar T., Scientist; and Er. Manisha Jagadale, Scientist

Human Resource

Head of Division

Scientific Staff

Technical Staff

Back ground information:

In this age of information technology and rapidly changing scenarios, Indian Agriculture has adopted the recent developments accordingly to give the maximum benefits to the Indian farmers. In the era of information technology, taking the advantage of the well-structured and fast electronic communication channels we can harvest the knowledge, information, and experience to develop new technologies which can be used to upgrade the lively hood of Indian farmers. By taking it as a challenge Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit has come into force in the month of December 2020 following the council’s guidelines in order to manage the various agriculture knowledge in the institute using computing facilities.

AKMU has been shifted to Administration Building. We assist with the various computer-related problems/ troubleshooting of our staff computer. This section has been providing smooth high-speed internet through wired and wireless in the institute campus. Internet security through Sophos UTM. UTM has been updated and renewed the license for three years.

The institute is enriched with high-speed internet connectivity from the National Knowledge Network which is one of the Nobel projects undertaken by the Government of India. AKMU has developed a farmers database based on information gathered from farmers of North and South 24 Parganas, Maldah, Murshidabad, Burdwan, Howrah, and Hooghly districts. A farmers’ WhatsApp group was created maintained for the wide circulation of recent information & technological developments, among jute growing farmers. An online information collection and grading result distribution system has also been developed. 

Services:

The major activity of AKMU is to look after institute auditorium, management and maintenance of institute website, aadhaar enabled biometric attendance of institute staff, management and maintenance of institute IT infrastructure, troubleshooting of daily issues related to computer and peripherals. A brief account of work done by AKMU is given below:

§  Providing arrangements for Virtual Meetings

§  Event organizing at Auditorium

§  Updating and maintenance of Institute Website

§  Institute social media like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube etc. management, updating and maintenance.

§  Management and maintenance of Data Security Firewall.

§  Management and maintenance of Aadhaar Enabled Biometric Attendance System

§  Management and maintenance of IT components of institute

§  Management and maintenance of Institute computer network and network pool.

§  Management and maintenance of high-speed internet connectivity.

§  Trouble shooting of IT related issues.

General IT advisory: Please click here for latest room rent information.

Numerous other activities like expert advice in Technical Evaluation Committee, eHRMS, ERP, development of google forms, GeM support etc. are done by AKMU.

Human Resource

§  In-Charge

§  Technical Staff

About

PME Cell coordinates and monitors all on-going R&D projects and evaluation of completed projects through internal and external experts. PME Cell delivers R & D reports as well as replies to numerous queries sought by SMD (AE), ICAR HQ and Parliament as and when required. PME Cell organizes meetings like Institute Research Council, Research advisory committee, Project Monitoring Committee, Quinquennial review tem, & scientific staff meeting for the monitoring, approval, evaluation of the completed/on-going projects. Other than regular activities, PME Cell compiles action taken reports for the need-based query on parliamentary/ Rajya sabha questions (68) ; HQ-ICAR, Subject Matter Division from Agricultural Engineering (91); proceeding (21) PME also associated in the compilation of report for institute ranking, SFC/ EFC document, Vision@2047 document, MoU document and need based reports requested from ICAR HQ.

Mandate

v  To coordinate research meetings like QRT, RAC, PMC and IRC for the recommendation of research projects of the institute based on Vision@2047 and national priorities.

v  To coordinate the monthly scientific staff meetings and other need-based meetings.

v  To submit the action taken report on the queries came from SMD, ICAR and other ministries.

v  To monitor all institute funded and externally funded projects, maintaining their document in RPP-I, RPP-II, RPP-III and RPP-IV; and then evaluates the completed projects through external and internal experts.

v  To prepare the progress reports like monthly progress of the institute, comprehensive action plan of projects and half yearly targets and achievements of the institute.

v  To maintain the records of projects, Parliamentary Queries, Council Orders, SFC Report and other important communication from ICAR.

v  To monitor the submission and publication of institute research works for the journals, seminar, conference and technical bulletins

v  To prepare and publish Institute Annual Report.

v  To monitor the research guidance of the scientists with other institutes / universities

Meeting Conducted since 2022

The important meeting held during the period are given below.

Human Resource

1.      Dr. L. Ammayappan, Principal Scientist & In-charge

2.      Dr. Sanchita Biswas Murmu, Scientist

3.      Sh. Tuhin Subhra Ghosh, Senior Technical Assistant

4.      Sh. Saikat Maiti, Technician

Back ground information:

ICAR-  NINFET Library is a prestigious and glorious library in the field of natural fibers. It was established in 1939. It has resources on Basic science, Agricultural engineering, Textile engineering, Fibre science, Economics, Statistics, Management, Computer Science as well as Standard and Specifications etc. NINFET library has a collection of Annual reports and Newsletter of various ICAR institutes. It also has a good collection of Hindi Books on grammar, literature and agriculture. The library plays a vital role in the collection development and dissemination of scientific and technical information to meet the present and future needs of the Institute. NINFET library Library empowered the R&D activates by holding a rich collection from old and rare to latest edition like ‘History and principles of weaving’ by Barlow, A. (1884), ‘Textile research journal’ from beginning, since 1932. It is an automated library using ‘Koha’ integrated library management software. The library is also a member of CeRa (Consortium of e-Resources in Agriculture) with all other ICAR institutes and SAUs.

Objective:

·         To build a state-of-the-art knowledge resource center for natural fibres and related science

·         To provide appropriate knowledge resources to meet information needs of the research community of the nation and institute in particular

·         To provide proactive and innovative information services to the research community

·         To act as repository of Institute’s publications and reports

Library Services:

·         Reference Services

·         Reading-Room Facility

·         Lending Facility

·         Online Document Delivery Service

·         Reprography Services

Statistics of books/ journals/ manuals and related library items in tabular format

Important Link:

1.      Online Library Catalogue  http://14.139.220.164/

2.      CeRA (Consortium of e-Resources in Agriculture)  https://jgateplus.com/search/login/

3.      KrishiKosh (an Institutional Repository of Indian National Agricultural Research System)  https://krishikosh.egranth.ac.in/home

4.      DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals) https://doaj.org/

5.      NDL (National Digital Library) https://ndl.iitkgp.ac.in/

6.      NPTEL (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning) https://nptel.ac.in/

Library Hours :

The Library remains open on all working days (Monday to Friday) from 9.00 AM to 5.30 P.M

Human Resource

Name:  Dr. L Ammayappan

Designation: Pr. Scientist & In-Charge, Library

Qualification: PhD, M.Tech, ARS

Contact No.: +91-33-2421 2115/2116 Extn. 205

Email ID: ammayappan.l@icar.gov.in

Name:  Mr. Tuhin S Ghosh

Designation: Sr. Technical Assistant

Qualification: M.L.I.S.

Contact No.: 8961948203

Email ID: tuhin.ghosh@icar.gov.in / tuhinghsh7@gmail.com

Name: Ms. Sharmila Dey

Designation: Skilled Support Staff

Qualification: Matriculation

Contact No. 9088750343

Email ID: sharmila.dey@icar.gov.in

About     

The Civil & Electrical Section of this Institute constantly contributing high-quality technical manpower monitors the repair & maintenance services of those Institutes buildings, Infrastructure development work and R&D work. This section coordinated with CPWD for planning & execution of infrastructure development like civil, electrical, sanitary & plumbing works. It is also looking after Institutes essential day to day work for smooth functioning of the Institute.

A brief account of work maintained by civil & electrical section is given below:

·         Maintaining day to day repair & maintenance of Institutes buildings and electrical installations.

·         Coordinating with CPWD for planning & execution of infrastructure development work.

·         Assisting to maintain Statement of Expenditure of the Institute with CPWD accounts.

·         Assisting to maintain land records and KMC tax related issues of the Institute.

·         Maintaining the ARC for Anti Termite & Pest Control services and to provide mosquito free, termite free and pest’s free Institute.

·         Maintaining the AMC for water purifiers and to provide safe drinking water to staffs, trainees, guests and residents.

·         Maintaining the AMC for 200 KVA D.G Set and to provide electricity during power cut.

·         Assisting in research projects as and when required.

Human Resource

§  In-Charge

§  Technical Staff

About:

The HRD Cell of the institute was inaugurated on the occasion of 83rd Foundation Day of ICAR-NINFET on January 3, 2021. The institute is actively engaged in HRD activities of the during past many years. The HRD cell is dedicated for promoting the activities to encourage the scientists as well as other staff members to undertake training, participate in seminars, conferences, symposia etc. The HRD cell organizes orientation training programs for newly appointed scientist, technical as well as administrative staffs of the institute and other training programs for professional developments in different functional areas for all level of staffs. ICAR-NINFET offers HRD research and training opportunities in the various disciplines of Agriculture, Textile, natural fibres. The Institute can include other disciplines, if deemed appropriate. The HRD cell of the institute is highly engaged in revenue generation through variety of strategies like Post Graduate and PhD student guidance, In-plant Training Program, Attachment/ Internship Training program, Regular Training Program, Refresher course etc.

Activities:

Different training programmes were conducted at the institute which include In-House Training programmes, internship/ attachment training, Exposure visits and Awareness Programme of students/ trainees from different organizations. Following are some major activities taken by HRD Cell.

§  In-house training

§  Internship training and Exposure Visit

§  Awareness camp on ICAR activities conducted

§  Training/Workshop/Seminar facilitated by HRD Cell

Human Resource

§  Scientific Staff

§  Technical Staff

Back ground information:

The institute has efficient administrative sections to support the research, human resource management, procurement, maintenance of office and dissemination of information activities. It has four sections for administrative work with Head of Office as controlling authority and a finance section with Head of Finance as Controlling authority.

Administrative Office act as Head of Office who controls the four administrative sections and acts as the Administrative ahead in any action with regard to the Institute.

Activities:

Administration-I Section:

Adm I looks after the general establishment matter of the Institute. The key function and roles are-

·         Appointment, Promotion, Transfer, and posting of all staffs,

·         Clearance of probationary period & Confirmation,

·         Pay fixation,

·         Release of Annual Increment and sanction & maintenance of leave accounts and sanction of LTC,

·         Maintenance of Service Record / Service Books/APAR/AIPR/Seniority list of all staffs,

·         Superannuation, Voluntary retirement and other Retirement Benefits

·         Forwardal of applications for outside posts/deputations,

·         Disciplinary action against staffs as per CCS(CCA) rules etc

Administration-II Section:

Adm-II looks after the processing of bills and other allied work provided to during and distinguishing officer. A high list of works is as follows:

·         Processing of bills.

·         Recancy and deposit of TDS and TCS.

·         Disbursement of Salary.

·         Making payments of all entitlements.

·         Deduction of NPS

·         A** payment.

·         Issuing of Form-16

Administration-III Section:

Adm.III looks after the procurement of the Institute. A high dissemination of its duties are as follows:

·         Processing all types of procurement.

·         Maintenance, communication related to government e-Marketplace.

·         Disposal of Advances and

·         Conduction local market survey

·         Issue of all types of sanction order.

·         Management of Asset Register

Administration IV Section:

Adm. IV section works as the stores section of the institute. Besides its works are enumerated below

·         Maintains stores

·         Maintains and enlists assets

·         Conducts auctions

·         Payment of electricity and telephone bills.

1.      Staff 

Name: A. MAJUMDAR

Designation:  Finance & Accounts officer

Section: Finance & Accounts Section
Email ID:  anasua.majumdar@icar.gov.in

Name: SATISH KUMAR

Designation:  Assistant

Section: Finance & Accounts Section
Contact No.: 
Email ID: 

Name: PRASUN KUMAR NATH

Designation:  Upper Division Clerk
Section: Finance & Accounts Section
Email ID: prasun.nath@icar.gov.in

Back ground information:

The security, gardening, scavenging, vehicle activities are smoothly and efficiently managed by Utility & Service Unit.

Services:

·         To provide maintenance support mainly carpentry work and some mechanical work.

·         To provide facility of cleaning and sanitization work.

·         To provide facility of Air Conditioning system.

·         To provide facility of refrigerator system.

·         To provide facility of Firefighting system.

·         To provide facility of Security system with CCTV surveillance.

·         To provide the infrastructure for beautification of landscape of Institute campus.

·         To provide the logistic facility.

·         To provide facility of shifting work.

·         To provide the car facility of the official tour or program.

·         To provide the facility for issuing cleaning item for flagship program of Swatch Bharat and general Institute cleaning purpose.

·         To provide the Meeting room facility.

Human Resource