CHAPTER 6
BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR SOCIETAL DEVELOPMENT
The application of biotechnology for societal
development has always received special attention
since it benefits socially and economically
disadvantaged sections of the society. Through this
programme a number of projects are implemented
for economic and technical empowerment of the
beneficiaries. Efforts are made through training,
demonstration and appropriate R&D inputs for
providing tailor made solutions for location specific
problems of SC/ST, women and rural population
using modern biology and biotechnology. The
following pages provide the highlights of the
achievements.
Programmes for SC and ST Population
Biotechnology-based Programme for
SC/ST population has benefited around 15,000
people directly and about 45,000 indirectly through
54 projects during the year. The projects have been
supported in the areas of cultivation of medicinal
and aromatic plants, biofuels, production of
biofertilizers and biopesticides, organic farming,
aquaculture, mushroom cultivation as well as
human healthcare interventions etc. The
universities, public funded institutions, Krishi Vigyan
Kendras and voluntary/non-governmental
organizations have been involved in the
implementation of the projects. The target groups
have received the benefit of hands-on training and
field demonstrations.
Vermicomposting: MR Morarka GDC Rural
Research Foundation Jaipur implemented a project
in Jalgaon district of Maharashtra, to benefit 2600
SC/ST target population on economic utilization of
waste, agriculture residues and cow dung. Over
1780 MT of waste, agricultural residues and cow
dung was utilized for vermicomposting through
establishment of 28 community facility centres.
Beneficiaries are utilizing vermicompost on crops
like onion, sugarcane, cotton, banana, papaya and
wheat. Some farmers switched over from
conventional crops to cash crops such as colorful
capsicum, gerbera as well as inter cropping of safed
Biotechnology for Societal Development
musli, turmeric and ginger in banana plantation.
Farmers have been trained to use bio-fertilizer, foliar
sprays and mulching to use the agro-waste for
fertility and management. Marketing linkages have
been established with "Organic Shoppe", through
which farmers are getting 10-20% premium for their
organic produce. About 20 entrepreneurs have taken
up vermiculture as commercial activity. extension
Material in the local language was distributed to
the farmers.
Mushroom cultivation: A project on promotion &
production of essential oil, mushroom and
vermicompost was implemented by RRL, Jorhat for
revenue generation of the ST population of
Arunachal Pradesh. Motivation and demonstration-
cum-training programmes have been conducted in
13 villages of five districts on cultivation of
citronella, production of mushroom and
vermicompost. Demonstration units have been
established at RRL Branch Naharlagun farm.
Mushroom spawn, earthworms and citronella
saplings were distributed to the beneficiaries.
Several beneficiaries established vermicompost
units on commercial basis and are selling
vermicompost. The beneficiaries at Ziro, Jairampur,
Doimukh, Manmao, Hetlong and Tengman have
established oyster mushroom cultivation units. So
far, 10 acres of land have been planted with
citronella and 7 acres of land with patchouli at
Sonajuli village of Papum Pare district.
Medicinal plants: A project on strengthening
health care practices and conservation of medicinal
and nutritious plants was continued at Herbal
Folklore Research Centre, Tirupati for
implementation in 100 villages of two Mandals in
Andhra Pradesh. Training workshops were organized
with the help of Yanadi tribal people for community
health volunteers on identification and sustainable
harvesting methods of 20 species of locally used
medicinal and aromatic species. The reputed healers
were encouraged to prepare medicines needed for
PHC from the identified plants. About 6000 seedlings
were distributed to the beneficiaries for planting in
135
 kitchen gardens. Green health kits (samples of
herbal medicines) and educational material in local
language containing identification, cultivation
techniques and preparation of medicines with their
therapeutic properties were distributed to the
trainees.
A project on creating awareness and promotion
of medicinal plants for the production and marketing
was implemented by RRL, Jorhat to benefit ST
population of Arunachal Pradesh. Awareness and
training programmes were organized on the
importance, scientific cultivation and marketing of
Piper longum, Kaempferia galanga, Andrographis
paniculata, Stevia rebaudiana, Rauvolfia serpentina
and Mentha piperita. Three nursery-cum-
demonstration centers were established at Roing
(1000 ft msl), New Bomdila (8160 ft msl) and Ziro
(4350 ft msl) and 19000 saplings were distributed
to ST farmers/NGOs for introduction and
propagation in their fields. At high altitude, villagers
were advised to cultivate Aconitum heterophyllym,
Coptis teeta and Picrorrhiza kurroa. Beneficiaries
have stopped collecting wild Homalonema
aromatica, an important but rare aromatic plant of
Arunachal Pradesh, and have started its cultivation
in their farms. Ten community nurseries have been
established with the help of Vivekananda Trust,
Roing at ten villages of Lower Dibang Valley District.
Twenty farmers were trained on cultivation and
post-harvest management of medicinal plants and
marketing tie-up has been established. Around 1266
local ST people participated in the awareness
programmes.
Distribution of planting material to ST beneficiaries of
Hetlong village, Arunachal Pradesh
136 DBT Annual Report 2005-06
A project on organic cultivation of medicinal and
aromatic plants for income generation and
sustainable development in Uttarkashi District of
Uttaranchal was undertaken through Forests
Conservation Programme of World Wide Fund for
Nature, New Delhi. Demonstration-cum-Resource
Material Production Centre established for training
on vermicomposting and cultivation of species.
Construction of poly house, vermi-composting units
and planting of seeds of Rauvolfia serpentina
completed. Awareness and motivation camps were
organized for the farmers. Extension material
brought out in the local language for cultivation of
Rauvolfia serpentina, Coleus barbatus and
Pelargonium graveolens were distributed to the
farmers.
A project on developing skills and economically
sound vermicompost units utilizing distillation waste
of Mentha arvensis (menthol mint) was
implemented for the benefit of SC/ST communities
of Lucknow and Barabanki Districts of Uttar Pradesh.
Around 200 farmers were trained on menthol mint
nursery raising, transplanting, distillation and
practices followed in vermicomposting.
Demonstrations were carried out in farmers' field
using high yielding variety 'Kushal'. Farmers trained
on organic farming started vermicompost
production using distillation and other agro-waste.
The yield data obtained from the demonstrations
showed the possibility of reduction of chemical
fertilizers by 75% without affecting the yield.
Biofuels: A project was continued on cultivation of
Jatropha in arid lands of Namakkal District in Tamil
Nadu for production of biofuel and other products
for SC/ST community by Centre for Research in
Social Sciences, Coimbatore. A high tech nursery
was established and plantlets of Jatropha were
raised. Training programmes were organized for 223
members on cultivation of Jatropha in 31 acres of
land. About 30,000 plants were supplied for
cultivation. Awareness camps, training and
demonstrations were conducted on Jatropha
cultivation, oil extraction and soap making. SHG
groups were trained in nursery techniques. Women
self help groups were trained in various activities
of jatropha cultivation and soap making. Extension
material bought out in the local language was
distributed to the beneficiaries.
Biocontrol agents: A project was implemented
on development of eco-preneurship among
the coastal community of Pondicherry by
MS Swaminathan Research Foundation, Chennai.
Sixteen SHGs involving women and youths were
formed in Ariyankuppam, Nonankuppam,
Kakayanthope and Veerampattinam villages.
Demonstrations and trainings were conducted to
educate trainees on basic aspects of IPM,
importance of biocontrol agents, production and
marketing of Trichogramma, importance of human
nutrition, role of edible mushrooms and production
& marketing of oyster mushroom. Micro-enterprise
was developed for mushroom and Trichogramma
production. Technologies were disseminated on
biopesticide (Trichogramma), oyster mushroom
production and vermicomposting to recycle the
spent waste of oyster mushroom. Extension
material brought out in the local language was
distributed to the villagers.
Aquaculture: A project was undertaken on
enhancing livelihood of SC/ST people in Orissa and
Tamil Nadu by MS Swaminathan Research
Foundation, Chennai for introducing various
aquaculture enterprises to 250 participants in
backyard ornamental fish culture and carp seed
production. Fingerlings produced were distributed
to the entrepreneurs for stocking. Various aspects
on ornamental fish breeding, carp nursery and gold
fish culture were disseminated to the self help
groups, which helped them in earning a revenue of
Rs. 200/month/household and an income of about
Rs. 3200/- from carp nursery and Rs. 8500/- from
vegetables and flowers as bund crops. Community
ponds were effectively utilized by stocking with
rohu, catla, mirgali, Chinese & Indian carps and
marketable size fish was harvested. Technologies
transferred to the entrepreneurs on community
pond aquaculture, carp nursery and ornamental fish
culture and extension material in local language
were distributed to the beneficiaries.
A project on utilization of integrated marine
living resources by SC youth from Tuticorin region
of Tamil Nadu was undertaken by College of
Fisheries, Tuticorin. Lobster fattening and crab
culture techniques were standardized and
demonstrated to the beneficiaries, who have grown
lobsters in cages for about 4 months and produced
250-350gms size for marketing. The beneficiaries
were helped in availing credit facilities and bank
loan. In the project around 120 people of target
population have been trained. A manual on crab
and lobster fattening technology was brought out
for the distribution to the beneficiaries.
Biotechnology for Societal Development
A project on freshwater prawn culture was
implemented in village Naubasta Kalan in Allahabad
District by University of Allahabad. Demonstrations
were conducted on prawn hatchery technology
and standardized methods for biocontrol
of prawn disease for integrated giant freshwater
prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) culture.
Trainings were conducted on scampi culture,
breeding and seed production and microbial inputs
were utilized for feed silage preparation
using indigenous technology. Apiculture activity was
introduced and disseminated to the target
population and extension material was distributed
to the beneficiaries.
Genetic counseling: Tribal population of northeast
region was screened for anaemia and nutritional
deficiencies through a programme implemented at
Vivekananda Institute of Medical Sciences, Kolkata.
The tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Tripura
displayed high incidence of anaemia due to HbE as
well as β and α Thalassaemia. Awareness
programme was organized for school children on
inherited anaemia in pre-marital and pre-natal
population. More than 1500 families from 80 villages
were educated on anaemia, thalassaemia and
hemoglobinopathies and counseling was provided
to them. Leaflets were distributed for awareness of
anaemia with special reference to Thalassaemia in
local languages.
A project on molecular epideomiology of
alcoholism was implemented jointly by
Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad
and Tribal Research Centre, Udagamandalam, Nilgiri
District to study Kota tribe population in Nilgiri hills.
General health awareness camps were arranged in
seven villages for periodical medical check up. Blood
samples were collected from 620 individuals and
clinical data on health profile revealed that the
disease morbidity is more for hypertension, heart
related problems and diabetes. Genealogies
indicated that the alcohol drinking habit is running
in the families for the past two to three generations.
Study undertaken on the health awareness camps
and medical camps were found beneficial in
counselling the tribal population.
Programmes for Women
During the year, 123 proposals were received
(April-September), examined and processed and
out of which 14 were approved for funding. Also
137
 the Task Force reviewed 68 ongoing projects.
Through these projects over 20,000 women
benefited under three major categories viz. (i)
economic empowerment using softer
biotechnologies, (ii) awareness on nutrition and
health including importance of traditional food/
healthcare and (iii) technical empowerment
including capacity building, developing training
modules etc. Over 7,000 women were benefited
directly through biotech packages for floriculture,
horticulture, cultivation of mushrooms, medicinal
and aromatic plants, biofertilisers, organic farming,
vermicomposting, sericulture, aquaculture, animal
husbandry, poultry farming and making of biocrafts
and approximately 13,000 were benefited indirectly
through programmes for human health and
counselling. Several training modules were
prepared for creating awareness on health,
traditional food and agricultural practices.
Highlights of the projects are given below:
Medicinal and aromatic plants: Under a project
supported through the S&T Council of Tripura at
Agartala, a herbal garden with over 100 species
was established, and 300 women were trained in
nursery raising, harvesting and post harvest
technologies of medicinal plants. The beneficiaries
cultivated citronella, turmeric, ginger and other
commercially important medicinal plants in their
backyard.
At the Zandu Foundation for Health Care at
Gujarat, nurseries of vacha (Acorus calamus),
kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) kauncha
(Mucuna pruriens), ash wagandha (Withania
somnifera) and sonamukhi (Acassia angastifolia)
were raised for quality planting material. Forty
women were trained in cultivation and post-harvest
processing of all the five selected medicinal plants.
Three plants viz. aswagandha, kalmegh and
sonamukhi have already been planted in an area of
five acre at farmers' land.
At Rishi Herbal, an NGO located in Bangalore,
50 women from 11 villages were trained in
cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. About
68,000 plants of Coleus forskohlli were raised in an
area of 5 acre and beneficiaries were able to sell
semi-processed material (dried root) @Rs. 40/- per
kg.
Under a project supported at Anna University,
Chennai, 20 women with land holdings of half an
138 DBT Annual Report 2005-06
acre were trained in stevia cultivation. They were
provided with 15,000 stevia saplings. Leaves were
periodically harvested, dried and stored. The first
harvest provided 200kg dry powder with a total
income of Rs. 20,000/-. A simple procedure for
stevioside extraction is being standardized for
quality end product.
Tropical Botanic Garden & Research Institute,
Kerala trained 75 women in conventional
propagation of selected plants. Six educated and
interested women were trained in micro-
propagation of Plumbago rosea, Aloe vera,
Indigofera tinctoria.
A total of 141 women were trained at the Central
Institute of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants units of
Lucknow, Hyderabad & Bangalore in organic
cultivation of ashwagandha, sarpagandha, kalmegh
& senna. Simultaneously, the beneficiaries were
encouraged to cultivate shade loving vegetable
crops, cash crops like lemongrass, patchouli and
eucalyptus.
Elite planting material of Aconitum
heterophyllum, Picrorhiza kurroa, Valeriana
jatamansi and Colchicum luteum were procured at
Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya,
Palampur. Their essential oil content was
determined before supplying to 157 identified
beneficiaries for further propagation.
The University of Kashmir, Srinagar identified
200 women from Tangmarg and Lolab valley.
Planting materials of four medicinal species, viz.
Rosa damascena, Althaea officinalis, Viola odorata
and Prunella vulgaris were raised covering an area
of 11 kanals (19,500 sq.mt.). The beneficiaries were
trained in nursery raising and the preparation of
various Unani medicine at their door step.
Through a project supported to an NGO at
Allahabad, elite clones of Jatropha curcas, Bamboo
sp., Moringa oliefera, Withania somnifera and Aloe
vera were procured for a demonstration plot. The
planting material was provided to 20 women
farmers. They were trained in cultivation of these
plants along the boundaries of their existing crops.
The beneficiaries were also trained in harvesting
the Jatropha seeds and post-harvest technologies.
Under a project sanctioned to S&T Council,
Chandigarh, Punjab, 13 training-cum-awareness
programmes were conducted. About 32 MT of wild
and 2.4 MT of cultivated variety of amla were
procured. The beneficiaries were trained in
preparation of nine food products of amla. FPO
license was obtained for marketing of these
products. Demonstration plots of lemongrass,
vetiver, tulsi, senna, ashwagandha and kaunch
covering an area of about 12.4 ha were established
in four villages.
Floriculture: Over 180 women from Shillong,
Itanagar and Chandigarh were trained in cultivation
of commercially important and hybrid species of
orchids. A total of 118 women of Shillong have raised
6 species viz. Dendrobium fimbriatum var.
oculatum, D. longicornu, D.lituiflorum, C. pendulum,
C. aloifolium and C. giganteum in their backyard.
These plants have started blooming. The
beneficiaries have started selling their harvest in
local market.
Through S&T Council, Bhopal 200 women were
trained in cultivation of gladiolus, marigold, mogra,
rose and tuberose.
Food processing: At College of Horticulture,
Vellanikara, Thrissur, 88 women were trained in
various aspects of entrepreneurship in preparation
of cocoa products including molding, packaging and
marketing. Twenty-two women have already set up
their production unit and are selling their products
in local market.
In another project at Fisheries College,
Tuticorin, 500 women were trained in cook-chill
technology for seafood and various parameters for
quality assurance viz. estimation of moisture
content, bacteria load, presence of bacterial species,
the nutritive value, shelf-life etc. The trained women
were grouped in 48 SHGs for establishing market
for seafood products.
At the Central Food Technological Research
Institute, Mysore data on biochemical and microbial
analyses for nutritionally important factors like
protein, amino acids, isoflavones, genistein,
diadzein and methods for improvement of shelf life
were collected on for 'Tofu' preparation. Also a by-
product of Tofu preparation, Okara, was found to
be rich in protein and amino acids has been used
as a food supplement. In another project at CFTRI,
17 women were trained in preparation of various
food products of high nutritive value, methods of
removal of anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid
and trypsin inhibitor found in soya bean, better
texture and improved shelf life. The food items
included fermented products of soya bean and fruit
pulp. Also 34 women were trained in spirulina
production and its application as health food.
Through CFTRI, technologies for rural bakery are
being disseminated to rural women in three villages.
A batch of 18 women were trained in
preparation of low cost nutritious food items like
ragi-papad, samber & rasam powder, pickle,

(a) (b)

Women empowerment through value addition of cocoa at KAU, Thrissur

(a) Trainees peeling the Cocoa beans for chocolate making
(b) Trainees using the btter extract to separate cocoa butter and powder

Biotechnology for Societal Development 139

 chutney, murabba etc. at Dangoria Charitable Trust,
Hyderabad. The marketing was provided through
the Mahila Udyog of the Trust. In another project at
Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati,
about 300 women were trained in making nutritious
food items utilizing locally available crops viz. rice,
millet, maize, ragi, wheat, green gram etc. Out of
these, 50 women started making these products at
home. The products have been sold locally.
Over 470 women from Bhopal, Shimla, Solan
and Bhubaneshwar were trained in polyculture fish
farming. Interested women were also provided
advance training in composite carp culture,
integrated fish farming with duck/poultry,
pond management and value added products
including fish processing. These women are selling
their products in local market and are earning Rs.
3000/- per harvest/family.

Poultry and livestock farming: The 'Action
Research on Health and Socio Economic
Development', Bolangir, Orissa, identified 100
women and trained them in poultry rearing. The
beneficiaries were provided with parent birds of
Carigold (dual purpose) and Vanaraja varieties. The
beneficiaries were able to earn Rs. 1000/- per month
through the sale of eggs and birds. The beneficiaries
were also trained in feed formulation using local
ingredients, management practices and
entrepreneurship skill. The trained women formed
SHGs and are approaching a bank for setting up their
poultry farms. The market is established through
state owned apex cooperative known as OPOLFED.
Through three projects supported at Tamil Nadu
Veterinary & Agricultural Sciences University and
its Extension Centres at Namakkal, Chennai and
Tiruchirapally, over 1200 women were trained in
poultry farming including feed formulation, farm
management / health care and preparation of
various food items such as quail egg pickle and
ready-to-eat food products etc.
Under a project sanctioned at the College of
Fisheries, University of Agricultural Sciences,
Mangalore, 57 women from Bengre village were
trained in scientific fish farming, processing and
post harvest technologies. Twenty more women
were trained in aquarium fish breeding and fish feed
formulation, using locally available ingredients.
Considering the opportunities in ornamental
fish, a project was supported at the University of
North Bengal. The identified women, 57 from
Darjeeling and 54 from Jalpaigudi district were
trained in rearing and breeding of guppy (Poecilia
reticulate) in cemented cisterns and angel
(Pterophyllum scalaer) in ponds. The women are
being trained in management skill and marketing.

Through a project at the Tamil Nadu Veterinary

& Agricultural Sciences University, 200 women from
10 villages of Namakkal district were trained in
livestock management including disease
identification, low cost feed formulation, cultivation
of green fodder and preparation of mineral mix
utilizing low cost local ingredients such as rice bran,
soya and minerals.

Aquaculture: Under a project at the North Eastern

Hill University, Shillong, techniques were
standardized for induced breeding for common carp
and 4,00,000 fish seeds were reared up-to fries for
distribution to the beneficiaries. Selected 92 women
were trained in fish farming techniques including
water quality testing, pond maintenance, induced
breeding, harvesting and feed formulation using
slaughter house waste. They were provided with
(a)
fish fries for rearing in their own pond.

140 DBT Annual Report 2005-06


(b)
Empowerment of women through backyard ornamental fish
breeding at Dareeling
(a) Trainees harvesting fish (b) Oxygen packing of fish
Organic farming / vermicompost: At the Sri
Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Anantapur
Campus, Andhra Pradesh, neem varieties with
higher level of azadirachtin were identified in 5
villages. Thirty trees were selected and 40 women
from two villages were trained in fruit collection,
drying and storage. Specialised training on
maintenance of neem processing gadgets,
processing of neem fruits for production of cake,
oil or powder, maintenance of aza-rich plantlets,
hardening, harvesting and application of neem
based biopesticide was provided to five resource
persons.
At the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK
Campus, Bangalore, five villages of Bangalore and
Kolar were surveyed for the availability of organic
waste. The waste materials were mostly sugarcane
trash, coconut coir pith and vegetable wastes.
Demonstration programmes for 20 to 25
farmwomen from each identified village were
organized. Six interested women were given on-
farm training. The technique of Trichoderma
enriched vermicomposting was perfected and
demonstrated at University campus.
At the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research,
Bangalore, 400 farmers were trained in production
of bio-agent-colonized seedlings of horticultural
crops. Protocol for combined formulation of bio-
agents, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Trichoderma
harzianum was standardized. The formulation was
Biotechnology for Societal Development
tested for its bioefficacy on seedlings of various
horticultural crops such as tomato, capsicum,
chillies, eggplant etc.
Through the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University,
Coimbatore 82 women from 13 villages of three
districts - Coimbatore, Namakkal and Dindigul were
trained on production and application of
biofertilizers. A repository of native strains was
developed at the University. AM biofertilizer
production technology was demonstrated to the
identified beneficiaries.
At MSSRF, Chennai, phosphate-solubilising local
strains were collected and screened.
Simultaneously several awareness programmes on
application of biofertilizer were organized for the
villagers of Rediarchatram block. About 300
interested farmers were trained in large-scale
production of biofertilizer.
Under the project support at Dangoria
Charitable Trust Hyderabad, apart from training
women in processing various items of food, 100
women from 13 villages were trained in production
of vermicompost, neem-based biopesticide and
their application in organic farming, About 100
vermicompost units were set up using the ring
method. The beneficiaries produced over 130
quintals of compost. The beneficiaries were
encouraged to raise nurseries of drumstick, papaya
and creeper spinach at their backyard using
vermicompost. The beneficiaries were able to sell
excess vermicompost and planting material.
Horticulture: Through the Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University, Coimbatore, 54 progressive farm women
were identified for training on cultivation of hybrid
rice. The women were provided with quality seed
their cultivation over an area of approximately four
acre. The yield for the first harvest (December to
May) was recorded at 2000 kg/ha. The beneficiaries
were able to earn an additional income of
Rs.20,000/- per acre/year through three crops in
an year.
At Supi farms, Uttaranchal non-traditional
vegetable crops were grown on farmers' land in a
small way. An herbal garden was established.
Incidence of pests to various crops was evaluated
and farmers were trained on production of
vermicompost and application of neem based
biopesticide in horticultural crops.
141
 Mushroom cultivation: In an attempt to empower
rural women through transfer of mushroom
cultivation technology 93, women were trained at
Himachal Pradesh Krishi Pradesh Vishwavidyalaya,
Palampur and 750 at Tropical Botanic Garden &
Research Institute, Kerala in mushroom cultivation.
In addition, 15 women were trained in spawn
production at TBGRI. The beneficiaries were given
15 days training in cultivation of Oyster and Agaricus
species using wheat straw. The first harvest of about
1000 kg was sold @ Rs. 16/kg. The beneficiaries
were also trained in various recipies of mushroom.
Market linkage has been established for their
products.
At the Indira Gandhi Agricultural University,
Raipur, 97 women were trained in the cultivation of
Oyster mushroom and various local edible varieties.
Out of these, 40 women were trained in spawn
production. Over 32 beneficiaries had already
established their unit and earning additional income
of Rs. 300-400/harvest.
Sericulture: A total of 550 women were trained
for various activities including the organic
cultivation of mulberry & rearing of cocoon and value
added products from waste at the Central
Sericultural Research & Training Institute, Mysore
and at Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West
Bengal. The beneficiaries are getting an additional
income through the sale of value added products
and surplus vermicompost.

(a)

(b) (c)

Establishment of Seri technology complex for women at CSR&TI, Mysore

Young age silkworm rearing, Handicrafts prepared out of cocoons.

142 DBT Annual Report 2005-06

Healthcare: Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology,
Bangalore, Karnataka organized over 50 awareness
camps on Carcinoma cervix to educate 2071 women
for its prevention. Blood samples collected from
1830 women based on their medical history, 1812
were found negative and 18 positive cases were
referred for treatment.
A project on mental retardation including
awareness generation among rual women,
screening for early detection and genetic counselling
was supported to Manovikas Bio-Medical Research.
Over 7,000 families from three Gram Panchayats
were surveyed. Ninety-one of these showing signs
of mental retardation were shortlisted. The families
were informed about the possible risk factors in
future. Analysis of blood samples from these for
genetic carrier showed only 4 cases of low level of
fragile X chromosomes.
A project is supported at Saraswati Dental
College, Lucknow for dental fluorosis. Water
samples from 12 villages around Lucknow and
Kanpur were analysed for fluoride content. Health
camps were organized in 4 villages with a team of
dental surgeon. A total of 2860 people were
examined for dental fluorosis. The severely affected
persons were advised for regular dental examination
at SGPGI, Lucknow. They were also provided with
calcium and cholicalciferol supplement. The blood
samples from the severely affected boys and
girls within the age group of 15 years and
pregnant women were examined for their blood
calcium level.
Under another project supported at Mahavir
Hospital And Research Center, Hyderabad, Andhra
Pradesh, blood lead levels in children and adults
including men and women were measured to study
environmental genotoxicity in women and children
occupationally exposed to lead, a heavy metal.
In an attempt to find alternate for HRT a project
on efficacy of soy phytoestrogens on osteoporosis
and cardiovascular profile of post-menopausal
women was supported to All India Institute of
Medical Sciences, New Delhi. A total of 53 post-
menopausal women were identified (29
experimental and 24 control group). Their medical
profile prepared. The experimental group was
given defatted soya (70 gm. per women
per day) to study the efficacy on osteoporosis.
Biotechnology for Societal Development
Computer modules: Through University of Pune,
five computer software modules were selected for
developing need-based websites for rural women.
These were categorized under the areas of human
genetics, reproduction, health, nutrition and
environment. The modules were designed for three
different levels: (a) rural women with no formal
education, (b) rural/urban educated women and (c)
skilled women (with science knowledge). The
training module for human reproduction with twelve
chapters including reproductive anatomy, infertility,
artificial reproductive technology, human cloning
etc. is ready. One training programme has already
been conducted at Aurangabad wherein twenty-
seven candidates were registered; out of these eight
were medical doctors and fourteen graduates
including social workers and housewives. The other
modules are at various stages of finalization.
Utilisation of Local Bioresources for Value-
Added Products
Prasad Kits: During the year, attempts were made
to replicate at other places the model developed at
the Himalayan Environmental Studies and
Conservation Organisation, Dehradun. The protocol
for Prasad items was modified in accordance with
the availability of raw material and the demand of
the temple committee. At Vaishno Devi, 41 women
were trained in prasad preparation, 41 in incense
making and 31 farmers were trained in basket
making. Since the nutritious offering has provided
employment to local people and is popular in
Vaishno Devi, Badrinath, Kedarnath and Gangotri,
efforts have been made to introduce a similar
enterprise at other religious places and encourage
the farmers in cultivation of raw material. It is
expected that by the end of year, the model will be
introduced at the Male Mahadeshwara Temple &
Biligiri Rangan Temple at Bangalore in Karnataka,
Sri Bade Hanuman Ji Shrines & Hanuman Temple
at Allahabad, U.P., Kaliyar Sharif Dargah in
Uttaranchal and a few more religious shrines.
Bee Keeping: Under a project supported at the
Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation
Organisation, Dehradun, 75 women were selected
from two different altitudes of Western Himalaya.
Women from the lower altitude, near Dehradun were
trained in collecting honey using wooden boxes.
The women from higher altitude, near Chamoli
district were trained in using wall hives. The
beneficiaries were provided with lantana hives and
143
 trained in honey collection from the local vegetation.
The trained women are collecting up to 14 kg
from each colony with an average earning of
Rs. 2000/-. The farmers are also earning through
sale of lantana boxes.
Willow: The Government of J & K has provided
land to the University of Kashmir, Srinagar for large
scale cultivation of elite variety of Salix sp. (willow)
in the villages of three districts viz. Anantnag,
Srinagar & Ladakh. The fast growing species Salix
alba and Salix viminalis were selected for nursery
raising at selected sites. Identified women are being
trained in making various craft items including
baskets and cricket bats along with nursery raising
and propagation of Salix.
Lac: Under a project supported at the Bioved
Research and Communication Centre, Allahabad,
lac culture technology was extended to 20 more
villages. Also the new host plant species viz. palas,
ber, babool, pipal, and jungal jalebi were included.
A total of 69,600 host plants were selected for lac
cultivation in consultation with the forest
department. Over 1000 families were benefited
through the project. The already trained women
were encouraged to form SHGs for better marketing
linkages. Lac growers are earning additional income
of Rs. 1500 to 2000/- per month through sale of lac
and value added products.
New initiatives: During the year, discussions were
held with six State Agricultural Universities and the
MSSRF, Chennai for implementation of the Women
Bio-resource Complexes (WBCs). The project aims
to demonstrate economically-viable, ecologically
compatible and women-friendly technologies for
sustainable employment to women. Each WBC
would be a cluster of contiguous villages which
would benefit at least 2000 women with Technology
Resource Centre for imparting training to
beneficiaries, facilities for weather and market
intelligence. Four WBCs have been recommended
for implementation in the states of Rajasthan,
Assam, Karnataka and Kerala by the end of year.
Programmes for Rural Areas
Biotechnology-based Programme for rural areas
has benefited around 10,000 people directly and
about 30,000 indirectly through implementation of
32 ongoing projects during the year. The projects
supported cover cultivation of medicinal and
144 DBT Annual Report 2005-06
aromatic plants, biofuels, production of biofertilizers
and biopesticides, organic farming, aquaculture and
ornamental fish breeding, mushroom cultivation,
genetic counselling, biovillage, tissue culture, food
products, poultry and integrated farming etc.
Universities, public funded institutions, Krishi
Vigyan Kendras and voluntary/non-governmental
organizations have been involved in the
implementation of the projects. The target group
received the benefit of hands-on training and field
demonstrations to bring greater awareness.
Vermicomposting: A project on vermicomposting
was implemented at Himalayan Research Group,
Chotta Shimla to organize training-cum-
demonstration camps. Women self-help groups
were formed and were provided training material
and earthworms for multiplication. Around 837
people are earning good income through the sale
of vermiculture and vermicompost.
Training and demonstrations programme on
vermicomposting and establishment of biogas
production units was organized in three panchayats
around Kariavattom campus of Kerala University.
Cost effective practices of vermicomposting were
developed utilizing locally available farm waste and
agro-industrial waste. Awareness programme was
conducted for utilizing household waste, in which
around 216 SC/ST people have participated. About
60 beneficiaries have been trained on vermi-
technology as a gainful employment, of which
fifteen have started producing and supplying good
quality vermicompost. Trained beneficiaries are also
seeking financial assistance to set up vermicompost
or biogas units.
Mushroom cultivation: A project on mushroom
spawn production and cultivation, value addition
was taken up as entrepreneurship development at
KVK Hassan District Karnataka by UAS, Bangalore.
Training programmes were conducted for 747
farmwomen. Four spawn production units were
established for supplying the seeding material to
the beneficiaries. Self help groups formed are
earning an average income of Rs. 500/ month by
selling the produce. Some of the beneficiaries are
also earning additional income through mushroom
cultivation.
A project on mushroom diversity was
implemented by CMD College in Bilaspur district of
Chhattisgarh for its utilization by tribal community
for their self-employment. Edible and medicinal wild
mushrooms were identified and characterized with
the help of tribal knowledge. An awareness
programme was organized and beneficiaries were
trained on mushroom cultivation and its application
in health care. Extension material brought out on
mushroom was distributed among the beneficiaries.
Demostration of Oyster Mushoorm cultivation for tribals in
Bilaspur district
Medicinal plants: A project on cultivation of
medicinal plants through organic farming was
implemented in 10 villages of Mathura District by
Pandit Deendayal Upadhayay Janmabhumi Smarak
Samity, Kesab Dham, Vrindavan on organic farming
and cultivation of tulsi, kalmegh, sannai, shatavari
and safed musali. Training-cum-demonstrations
were organized and farmers were encouraged in
organic cultivation of medicinal plants.
Demonstration units of vermicompost were
established and 20 mini kits of the plants were
provided to the farmers free-of-cost for cultivation
in fallow land. Beneficiaries have started the
cultivation along with their traditional crops and
the farmers have earned about 25 to 80% benefits
in comparison to their traditional cereal crops.
Around 500 farmers have been benefited through
the project.
Biocontrol agents: A project was implemented
on demonstration on utilization and mass production
of bioagents to rural women folk in sericulture at
Tamil Nadu Agriculture University, Coimbatore.
Demonstration and training programmes were
conducted for 176 rural women. On-farm
demonstrations were conducted in 20 villages using
bioagents viz., Azospirillum, phosphobacteria, neem
Biotechnology for Societal Development
oil and Trichoderma. Demonstrations were
conducted to sericulturists from 20 villages to enrich
their knowledge of organic manures and use of
botanicals as bioagents. Technical know-how was
provided to the entrepreneurs on preparation of
vermicompost by using sericulture waste and
biofertilizer.
Aquaculture/ornamental fish breeding: A
project on ornamental fish breeding and integrated
fish farming was implemented by National Research
Center for Women in Agriculture, Bhubaneshwar.
Training and demonstrations were conducted on
carp seed rearing, carp poly culture, fish-cum-duck
farming, fish-cum-poultry farming, mushroom
cultivation and ornamental fish production
benefiting 138 families. A nursery was established
producing about one lakh fry for distribution to the
beneficiaries. The technological package developed
has been disseminated to the rural people for
adoption. Small units of ornamental fish production
have been established for adoption by rural people
for breeding of livebearers such as Guppy, Balloon
molly, Black molly, and Swordtail. Beneficiaries are
earning an average income of Rs. 250/- per month.
A project on utilization of vermicompost for
better growth and survival of carp fry and fingerling
was implemented by Indira Gandhi Agricultural
University, Raipur. Villagers and school dropouts
were trained on vermicomposting and its application
in aquaculture and utilizing it in nursery ponds.
Demonstrations conducted shown better growth
and survival of carp fry and fingerling using
vermicompost in aquaculture. Trainings were
conducted for farmers to show vermicompost as
eco-friendly and cheap device for rearing of carp
fry and fingerlings. Earthworms multiplied were
transferred for vermicomposting and bio-
fertilization of fishponds.
Integrated farming: A project was taken up on
integrated rice-cum-fish-cum-poultry farming for
rural people by Department of Agriculture,
Annamalai University. Demonstrations were
conducted on integrating rice-cum-fish-cum-poultry
farming. Standardized protocol was disseminated
to the villagers through setting up on-farm
demonstration units at villages viz., Thirunanriyur,
Vilagam,Vaiyur and Vandurayanpet benefiting 100
farmers. Training programmes were conducted on
basic concepts of integrated farming system. A
brochure has been brought out so as to provide all
145
 requisite details for adoption of integrated rice-cum-
fish-cum-poultry farming system.
Poultry: Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries
Sciences University, Bangalore implemented a
project on GIRIRAJA chicken for the benefit of rural
people. Poultry rearing practices were introduced
to the villagers and a training programme was
organized on various aspects on brooding, rearing,
health, replacement, and vaccination management
of Giriraja birds. Around 13,340 birds were
distributed to 667 families in different target areas.
With the introduction of poultry rearing practices,
each farmer is consuming about additional 2 to 3
eggs per week and 200 to 300g of poultry meat per
month without any excess expenditure and also
earning a net income of Rs. 180 to 250 per month
per family without any extra cost. Extension
material brought out in the local language was
distributed to the beneficiaries.
Distribution of Girirja chicken to the beneficieries
Food products: A project was undertaken to study
the effect of feeding of malted foods on nutritional
status of vulnerable groups by Acharya NG Ranga
Agricultural University, Hyderabad. Two types of
amylase rich malted mixes (ARMM) were developed
using germinated ragi and wheat with the
combination of sprouted green gram. Suitable
products were prepared and nutritional assessment
was carried out on 400 pre-school children, 100
pregnant women and 100 lactating women in all
the selected villages from Lepakshi mandal using
pre-structured interview schedule. Feeding trials
were carried out to find out the effect on the
nutritional status on supplementation of ragi malt
and wheat malt mixes. Demonstration and training
146 DBT Annual Report 2005-06
programmes were conducted to benefit about 1000
people. Posters, flip charts, manual on malted food
for good health and various other education material
were developed on amylase rich malted mixes to
educate and popularize the importance of malted
foods through extension activities.
Biovillage: A model biovillage project was
implemented through Central Salt and Marine
Chemicals Research Institute, Bhavnagar. Training
programmes were organized for 118 farmers on use
of biofertilizers, biopesticides from neem kernel and
NPV and its uses for control of pests of cotton and
groundnut. Training was also extended for nursery
raising, developing Salvadora persica and Salicornia
brachiata plantations on saline soils, identification
of drifted seaweeds, preparation of Liquid Seaweed
Fertilizer and its uses in different crops. Thirty
biogas plants were established in the villages.
Through the project, more than 1000 people have
been benefitted including women.
A project on application of biotechnology at
farmers' field through biovillage approach was
implemented by UP Council of Sugarcane Research,
Shahjahanpur for dissemination of high yielding
sugarcane variety. Around 84,000 plantlets
produced through tissue culture were transplanted
for cultivation. Training and workshops were
organized for 200 farmers on production of bio-
compost from sugar mill press-mud and agricultural
wastes using microbial decomposition technique,
method of sugarcane planting and biological control
method using trichocards. Over 2000 trichocards
of Trichogramma japonicum and T. chilonis were
released in the demonstration plots of farmers.
Extension material brought out in the local language
was distributed to the farmers.
Genetic counseling: A project on environmental
and health care biotechnology awareness for the
identification and prevention of genetic disorders
in rural population of Andhra Pradesh was
undertaken by Institute of Genetics and Hospital
for Genetic Diseases, Osmania University,
Hyderabad. Awareness programme was conducted
for identification and determination of prevalence
of genetic disorders among the rural population in
Mahboobnagar district, in which Primary Health
Centres, anganwadi workers and multi-purpose
health assistants were also participated. Survey was
made in two mandals for around 5528 households
including screening of 29647 individuals for genetic
disorders like birth defects, chromosomal disorders,
single cell disorders and adult onset disorders. The
screened families affected with various disorders
were offered genetic counselling. The posters and
hand-outs on genetic disorders in English and local
language have been displayed.
Benefiting People Affected by Natural
Disasters
Earthquake victims in Kutch, Gujrat: 'Krishi Jaiv
Pradyogiki Prasar' was implemented in Kutch by
the NGO Science Ashram, for benefiting earthquake
victims of the region. Training programmes were
conducted on vermicomposting, green house-poly
house farming for local crops, cultivation, post-
harvest and processing practices, animal husbandry
and vaccination, irrigation and information on recent
technological options. Through awareness and
training programs, more than 3000 people were
benefited on cultivation of local crops and adoption
of new technologies. Extension material brought
out in the local language was distributed to the
villagers.
have already started earning through the
sale of the various produce in the local market.
A project for sustainable ecological and
economic rehabilitation in four tsunami-affected
villages in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry was
supported at MSSRF, Chennai. A village knowledge
center was set up at Sadras East village and is being
maintained by the villagers as volunteers on roster
basis. Nurseries for mangroves and non-mangrove
species were set up and the beneficiaries have
raised over 68,000 saplings of casuarina, cashew
and coconut. Planting material to act as a 'bioshield'
across the coastline is ready and would be planted
during suitable weather condition. A total of 4,490
beneficiaries were trained in backyard nutrition
garden, oyster mushroom cultivation, poultry
farming and vermicomposting. The beneficiaries
have already constituted SHGs and are selling their
products.

Economic rehabilitation and eco-restoration

of Tsunami affected areas: Several coastal areas
of southern India and Andaman & Nicobar Islands
were affected by a Tsunami on 26.12.2004. DBT
reacted quickly for the rehabilitation of the affected
people and eco-restoration of the area. A committee
was formed to identify priorities for formulation of
suitable project proposals. Six projects were
supported, four in Tamilnadu / Pondicherry and two
in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

One of the projects was supported at the Central

Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, for the
rehabilitation of people through integrated
initiatives on agriculture and health as well as eco-
restoration of the affected area. Under the project,
soil and water bodies are being reclaimed for
agricultural activities. Five Anganwari workers were
trained for health intervention and nutrition. The
beneficiaries were also trained in rice cultivation,
and provided with saline-resistant variety of
seed. The first crop of paddy has been
already harvested. The beneficiaries were also
imparted training in organic cultivation of seasonal
vegetables, apple, banana and black pepper; culture
Rehabilitation programmes of four Tsunami affected villages
of Oyster mushroom as well as in the production in Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry - Village Knowledge Centre
and application of vermicompost & neem based (VKC) at Sadras East, Kalpakkam, Kancheepuram District,
biopesticide and poultry farming. The trained people Tamil Nadu

Biotechnology for Societal Development 147

 A project was supported at the Aquaculture
Foundation of India, Chennai with the aim of
providing employment opportunities through
cultivation of the seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii.
This marine alga is source of carrageenan, which is
used in industries like food, textile, pharmaceutical,
brewing & cosmetics. A kilogram of these algae can
fetch upto Rs. 100 crores in the market and hence
its scientific cultivation is highly profitable. The
algae are grown on a support system made of
bamboo (and known as 'raft'), which floats in the
sea. The beneficiaries have been trained in raft
making and are currently in the process of setting
up their seaweed-farming unit. Under the project,
DBT would provide 60% of fund as grant and the
balance 40% will be obtained as bank loan through
State Bank of India.
With the aim of establishing a 'bio-shield' along
the coastline and promoting the eco-restoration of
Andaman group of Islands, a project was supported
to Institute of Forest Genetics & Tree Breeding,
Coimbatore and the Department of Forests, Govt.
148 DBT Annual Report 2005-06
of Andaman & Nicobar. Planting material of suitable
species of Casuarina for Andaman groups Islands
are being raised by the local people and maintained
at their nurseries. The local people have also been
trained in making compost utilizing the bio waste.
A project was supported at the Madras
Veterinary College, Chennai, with the aim of
providing sustainable employment to tsunami-
affected persons through livestock resources.
Beneficiaries from four villages of Tamil Nadu and
Pondicherry have been identified for training in
homestead goat farming and backyard poultry.
It was observed that with increased salinity,
water bodies have become suitable environment
for mosquito breeding particularly Anopheles
sundaicus. A number of remedial steps have been
introduced to check malarial outbreaks through a
project on situational analysis of mosquito breeding
and its control supported at the Malaria Research
Centre. The project is aimed at the control of out
break of malaria in Car-Nicobar and Port Blair.