The ZTM & BPD Unit, in collaboration with CCUBGA and the Division of Microbiology, ICAR–IARI, successfully conducted a four-day hands-on training program on “Cultivation and Downstream Processing of Spirulina Biomass Towards Developing Value-Added Products & Exposure to Commercial Ventures” from 3rd to 6th November 2025. The program aimed to equip participants with practical knowledge and technical skills related to Spirulina cultivation, processing, and commercialization.
The training was inaugurated on Monday, 3rd November 2025, in the presence of Dr. C. Viswanathan, Joint Director (Research), ICAR–IARI, who attended as the Guest of Honour. Also present were Dr. O.P. Tiwari and Dr. G. Abraham, Principal Scientists from the Division of Microbiology, along with Dr. Akriti Sharma, In-charge of the ZTM & BPD Unit. In his address, Dr. Viswanathan highlighted Spirulina’s significance as a sustainable, nutrient-rich bioresource with strong potential in the food, health, and nutraceutical sectors.
Throughout the four days, participants were introduced to a wide range of scientific, technical and commercial components of Spirulina production. The sessions covered critical processes such as drying, harvesting, and product formulation, along with the latest technological advancements in large-scale production of Spirulina platensis. Experts also guided participants on developing nutraceuticals and functional foods derived from Spirulina biomass, showcasing its promising role in the health and food industries.
Special sessions focused on the expansion of Spirulina cultivation in India’s northeastern region, emphasizing its favourable climate, natural resources, and potential for becoming a major centre for Spirulina-based rural entrepreneurship.
Participants also visited the Division of Microbiology, where they interacted with the Head of Division, Dr. Radha Prasanna, and other scientists on various aspects of biofertilizers. They toured facilities such as the biofertilizer production unit, mycorrhiza production unit, and PUSA decomposer unit, gaining deeper insights into microbial technologies that contribute to sustainable agriculture. These interactions enhanced participants’ understanding of Spirulina cultivation systems, biomass processing, and opportunities for developing value-added products.
A key highlight of the program was the visit to a commercial Spirulina production facility at Chhapraula, G.B. Nagar (Noida), Uttar Pradesh. The industrial exposure allowed participants to observe large-scale Spirulina cultivation practices, downstream processing, culture maintenance, harvesting, drying, and product packaging. The visit also provided valuable insights into marketing strategies and business opportunities in the growing Spirulina sector.
The training concluded on 6th November 2025 with a valedictory session addressed by Dr. P.S. Brahmanand, Project Director, Water Technology Centre, ICAR–IARI, who attended as the Chief Guest. Dr. Brahmanand congratulated both the organizers and participants, encouraging them to apply the knowledge gained to advance sustainable agricultural practices and foster innovation-led agribusiness growth.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the comprehensive structure of the training, which combined classroom sessions, laboratory demonstrations, and industry exposure. They noted that the program significantly strengthened their understanding of Spirulina production as a promising pathway to sustainable food systems and rural entrepreneurship.
