The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is dedicated to fostering self-reliance in India by developing indigenous technologies, according to Dr. N Kalaiselvi, the Director General of CSIR. Addressing a press conference on the 'Role of CSIR in building an Atmanirbhar Bharat' at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), Dona Paula, Panaji, Dr. N Kalaiselvi underscored the organization's commitment to nationwide research and development in its 37 laboratories. She stressed the pivotal role of indigenization in ensuring the country's self-sustainability.
Dr. Kalaiselvi acknowledged India's abundance of raw materials, attributing them to Mother Nature, and emphasized the need for preparation in the face of unpredictable global developments.
Success Stories: 'Purple Revolution' and PRIMA ET11
Discussing successful initiatives, Dr. Kalaiselvi spotlighted CSIR's contribution to the 'Purple Revolution' in Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in lavender cultivation. CSIR's interventions led to significant growth, creating agri-startups and earning the region the moniker 'Purple Revolution.' The Republic Day Tableau also showcased PRIMA ET11, India's first women-friendly, compact Electric Tractor, developed indigenously under CSIR's agro-mechanical technology.
Supporting Agri-Startups in Jammu and Kashmir
Contrary to the typical technology transfer approach, CSIR actively supports over 300 agri-startups in Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating a commitment to the region's progress. This hands-on approach has instilled confidence among the local population.
CSIR's Aroma Mission: Lemongrass Oil Export Success
Dr. Kalaiselvi highlighted CSIR's Aroma Mission, which transformed India from a lemongrass oil importer to an exporter by 2023. The country exported a remarkable 600 million tons of lemongrass oil in that year.
Hydrogen Hydrate Manufacturing Facility and SAF Technology
The DG touched upon the hydrogen hydrate manufacturing facility inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2022. As promised, commercial production commenced in 2023, with a 10,000-tonne-per-annum plant serving various industries. Additionally, CSIR's Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) technology, showcased in Republic Day flypast aircraft, has garnered interest from Airbus and other private players.
C-Bot by NIO
Dr. Kalaiselvi unveiled C-Bot, an underwater unmanned vehicle developed by NIO, capable of diving up to 200 meters. With plans for an upgraded version for deeper dives, C-Bot will aid scientists in studying the undersea ecosystem, collecting samples, and exploring climate-related topics across the vast Indian Ocean.
CSIR-Jigyasa Program: Nurturing Scientific Temper among Students
Dr. Kalaiselvi highlighted CSIR's Jigyasa Student-Scientist Connect Program, aimed at promoting scientific temper among school and college students and teachers. NIO serves as a role model in connecting with the student community, allowing them real-time experiences through virtual reality, and fostering a passion for science and technology.
