21 February 2026, Kolkata
Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Shri Ram Nath Thakur visited the ICAR–National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology today to review its achievements, technological progress and future research roadmap. He held detailed discussions with scientists and senior officials on the institute’s contributions in supporting farmers through improved production practices, value addition and natural fibre innovation.
Dr. D. B. Shakyawar, Director, ICAR-NINFET, briefed the Minister on breakthrough technologies and new institutional policies promoting “New Age Natural Fibres” such as flax, ramie, sisal and banana fibre. ICAR-NINFET’s five-year plan includes extensive research and robust technology transfer, supported by a national project on production, processing and value addition of these fibres to strengthen value chains and address field-level challenges.
Dr. K. Narsaiyah, Assistant Director General (PE), ICAR, reviewed the institute’s activities under the “One Team, One Task” approach aligned with the vision of Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and congratulated the team for its advancements in the “Waste to Wealth” initiative.
The Minister witnessed the progress in fibre extraction from agricultural residues such as banana pseudo-stems, which holds potential for additional farmer income and sustainable resource utilisation. Heads of Departments presented research outcomes and field-level impact.
Shri Thakur appreciated the institute’s efforts and urged greater research intensity, industry collaboration and farmer outreach, reaffirming the Government of India’s commitment to ensuring farmer prosperity and self-reliance.
The Minister also inaugurated the institute-developed AI NG Station and released a Technical Bulletin on the occasion.
(Source: ICAR- National Institute of Natural Fibre Engineering and Technology, Kolkata)
Like on Facebook
Subscribe on Youtube
Follow on X X
Like on instagram