ICAR-CCRI inks MoA with Magfruit for Licensing Citrus-Based Processed Products in Manipur

12^th March 2025, Nagpur

In a significant step towards promoting value addition and reducing post-harvest losses in the citrus sector, the ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute (ICAR-CCRI), Nagpur has formalized two Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Magfruit, a fruit processing brand under the Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Government of Manipur today in Imphal. The agreements facilitate the licensing of two innovative citrus-based processed products – an energy drink and vitamin C-fortified gummies. 

The MoAs were signed by Dr Dilip Ghosh, Director, ICAR-CCRI, and Shri K. Debdutta Sharma, Director, Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, Manipur, in the presence of Shri T. Pamei, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary (Horticulture and Soil Conservation), Manipur. 

Speaking at the event, Dr Ghosh emphasized that the agreement marks an important milestone in the transfer of technology for the commercial production of energy drinks and nutri gummies. He stated that these innovations would boost citrus fruit production in Manipur, enhance value addition, and ultimately improve farmers’ income. He further highlighted that ICAR-CCRI is in the final stages of research on essential oil extraction from Melanesian Papeda (locally known as Heiribob), a native citrus species. Once standardized, this technology will enable the year-round utilization of Heiribob’s natural flavor. 

Shri Sharma, Director, stated that the licensing agreement with ICAR-CCRI is part of the state government's concerted efforts to minimize wastage and promote value addition in the horticulture sector. 

Shri Pamei reiterated that the newly signed agreement would significantly benefit young entrepreneurs and citrus farmers while contributing positively to the state’s economy. 

The collaboration between ICAR-CCRI and Magfruit marks a strategic advancement in citrus processing, paving the way for a more resilient and profitable citrus industry in North-east India.