Agartala: Recently, the Microbiology Department of Tripura Central University, which has been growing ramie fiber since 2015 for research purposes, sold the first batch of 10 kg fiber to the Weavers’ Service Centre in Jaipur, Rajasthan.
Ramie is a renewable plant fiber that's derived from a plant in the nettle family. It is biodegradable and can be woven finer than linen, a popular choice for fabrics, especially in the summers. Ramie can grow well in some parts of West Bengal and in northeastern states including Assam, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.
In the wake of the development, Business North East reached out to Professor Shaon Ray Chaudhuri, head of the Department of Microbiology at Tripura University, who revealed that they have developed a patented process for microbial polishing of ramie fiber, resulting in fine spinnable threads.
"Since 2015, Tripura University has been cultivating ramie fiber purely for research purposes. We have grown it within the university and created a patented microbial polishing process that produces fine spinnable threads. We are currently testing this process, and various industries have shown significant interest. The finished fiber has been used to create different types of fabric, some of which were presented to the President of India, Draupadi Murmu, last year in January," the Professor told this platform.
She added that sample materials have been shared with linen manufacturing companies who have expressed keen interest to purchase the threads.
"People are looking for a steady supply of raw materials. Those who received our samples are very satisfied and now wish to procure more. Tripura University and our department are also working to promote ramie cultivation among local farmers where non-waterlogged lands are available. This initiative offers an alternative livelihood. Our patented process enables the production of various fabrics," Chaudhari added.
The University has received positive feedback from different industries that have developed sample products using ramie yarn. Due to its successes with the product, the University is also considering promoting ramie cultivation among local farmers as an alternative livelihood.
"Today, the University has generated a sufficient amount of fiber to sell to potential buyers and the first batch of fiber has been shipped to the Weavers’ Service Centre in Jaipur after receiving payment. The buyer, who previously received samples of the fiber, collaboratively developed different products, which were well received by the community during various demonstrations. They see immense potential for ramie fiber in creating various handloom products, hence their purchase of the first 10-kilogram consignment. Members of the Microbial Technology Group (scholars and field workers) are trained in the organic cultivation of ramie, further empowering the youth and contributing to a self-reliant India," Chaudharisaid.
The products and initiative were highly appreciated at the 34th Tripura Industries Fair held earlier this year.
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