Srinagar, Dec 11, KDC: In a significant research milestone for Jammu & Kashmir, Dr. Shrikant Shivaji Maktedar of Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, has secured a ₹3.5 crore research project under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS), sanctioned by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC).
The approval, issued by the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE) on December 10, pertains to a three-year project titled “Circular Bioeconomy Approach towards Catalytic Transformation of Lignocellulosic/Biopolymeric Himalayan Waste into Durable & Degradable Bioplastic.”
The sanctioned amount of ₹3,50,00,000 will support research aimed at transforming Himalayan biomass and waste into sustainable, biodegradable bioplastics using catalytic and circular bioeconomy-driven technologies.
The project will be led by Dr. Shrikant Shivaji Maktedar, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, as the Principal Investigator (PI), along with Prof. N.G. Sahoo and Dr. Sandeep Samantaray (CED0 NIT Srinagar as Co-Principal Investigators.
Dr. Milind Pralhad Kamble, Chairman of the Board of Governors (BOG), also lauded the accomplishment, calling it a proud moment for NIT Srinagar.
“The institute continues to strengthen its research ecosystem, and this prestigious grant is another testament to the dedication of our faculty. The project has immense potential for societal and ecological impact, particularly in sustainable materials,” he said.
In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, termed this development a major milestone for the institute and congratulated Dr. Maktedar and co-principal investigators.
“This is an exceptional achievement for NIT Srinagar. The project will contribute to India’s ongoing efforts to develop eco-friendly alternatives to plastic and address waste management challenges across the Himalayan landscape,” he said.
Director Prof. Kanaujia, added that securing such a high-value and nationally significant project under NMHS reflects the institute’s research strength and commitment to solving environmental challenges in the region.
In-charge Director and Dean R&C, Prof. Roohie Naaz Mir, said the grant reinforces the institute’s strategic focus on high-impact, socially relevant research.
“We are committed to supporting cutting-edge research. This project enhances our national standing and opens new avenues for advanced collaborations and technology development,” she said.
Institute Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, described the project as a significant step forward in NIT Srinagar’s research trajectory.
“Dr. Shrikant’s work aligns with global priorities of waste reduction and green alternatives. This project will strengthen innovation in biodegradable materials and position NIT Srinagar at the forefront of environmental research,” he said.
Head of the Chemistry Department, Prof. Kowsar Majid, extended her heartfelt congratulations, calling the achievement “a landmark moment” for the Department.
She praised Dr. Maktedar and Co-Principal Investigators for their dedication and noted that the project would substantially contribute to the Department’s academic and research growth.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Shrikant Shivaji Maktedar thanked the NIT Srinagar leadership for their constant support. “From the bottom of my heart, I express my gratitude to the Institute authorities for their guidance and encouragement,” he said.
Dr. Maktedar acknowledged the vital role of the Research & Consultancy Wing, adding that the achievement would not have been possible without the support of the Dean R&C and the encouragement of his Head of the Department. He also appreciated the inclusive academic atmosphere at NIT Srinagar.
“I would like to acknowledge the contributions of Prof. N.G. Sahoo and Dr. Sandeep Samantaray as Co-Principal Investigators, and also appreciate the positive and supportive environment at NIT Srinagar that enables impactful research,” he said.
Dr. Maktedar further stated that the ₹3.5 crore NMHS project acknowledges his research group’s scientific capabilities and commitment to environmental sustainability, while enhancing its capacity to conduct advanced research.
He expressed gratitude to NMHS, MoEF&CC, stating that the funding will support the development of sustainable solutions to address challenges in the Himalayan region. (KDC)
