November 24, 202; Kolkata:

ICAR-National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology (NINFET), in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Gayeshpur, Nadia organized a farmers' fair under the Mera-Gaon-Mera-Gaurav scheme at Nadia KVK, Gayeshpur, Nadia today.

The Chief Guest, Prof. Goutam Saha, Honourable Vice-Chancellor, BCKV highlighted the importance of modern technologies for addressing food security and climate change in agriculture. He mentioned that natural fibre-based handicraft products have great scope in rural livelihood generation and entrepreneurship development. The distinguished guests, Prof. Gautam Chakraborty, Dean of Student Welfare, BCKV addressed the gathering about sustainable agricultural practices and climate resilient technologies.

Dr D. B. Shakyawar, Director, ICAR-NINFET briefed about the technological advancements in the recent years, namely NINFET-Sathi^® jute retting accelerated, Jute-leaf-beverages, AI-based jute grading system, Vegan leather, Keratin-based cosmetic products, Muti-fibre extractors, Bioenergy from natural fibre crops, Bio-packaging, Biodegradable sanitary napkin, Jute/hemp-based apparel textile. Dr. Sanjoy Debnath, Head, MPD emphasised the use of jute agro/geo-textile in sustainable agriculture. Dr. Saikat Dey, DDM, NABARD briefed about the importance of banana fibre for the farmers livelihood improvement.

NINFET scientists led technical sessions that provided farmers with in-depth knowledge of innovative technologies. Jute grading and bleaching/dyeing processes were demonstrated, and natural fibre products were also exhibited.

About 150 farmers from the nearby villages attended the programme.

(Source: ICAR-National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology, Kolkata)