DBT’s Algal Project Could Result In Numerous Products, Including Biofuel
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, has joined hands with the Indian Oil Corporation for developing a third generation bio fuel, according to A.S. Ninawe, senior advisor, DBT. Taking part in the inauguration of an international conference on “Advances in algal biotechnology” at VIT University, he said the DBT was focussing on seaweed.
He mentioned that the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute has found a solution to Type-II diabetes with the help of a seaweed called Cadalmin. It has been clinically validated and the product has also been commercialised.
“They are also taking similar efforts to develop nutraceuticals, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic drugs. They are trying to use seaweed as a bio-fertiliser and bio-remediation material,” he added. “They are a good source for bio-ethanol.”
The DBT has taken the initiative to develop biofuel, and along with IOC is developing a third generation bio fuel and bioremediation material, he stated.
It was also planning to establish a world-class autonomous institute of marine biology and biotechnology. “This state-of-the-art institute will create a platform to undertake basic and applied research in marine sciences and biotechnology and entrepreneurial skill development in biotechnology,” he said.
Elaborating
on algae, he said that it was used as food, fodder, manure and medicine. This large and diverse group of plants contained considerable amounts of proteins, carbohydrates and fibre in addition to anti-oxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds.“It fights diseases such as cancer, arthritis, diabetes, hypertension and cardio-vascular diseases,” Mr. Ninawe said.
Noting that the Prime Minister has called for greater research and promotion of coastal seaweed, he said that there was a need to tap the marine and coastal resources, particularly seaweed resources. VIT’s chancellor G. Viswanathan said, “Algae is a wonder plant. It can be used as fuel, food, fertiliser and medicine.”
He said it was time that the Government of India, research and teaching institutions, and scientists came together to form a consortium, take up research and make products using algae. M. Sakthivel, president of Aquaculture Foundation of India, Chennai said seaweed is a very rich source to develop health products but unfortunately it has been ignored in our country.
