The institute, based on its technology, initiated setting up two commercial ventures in the state of Sikkim and Mizoram for processing of fresh ginger. The unit will produce fresh flavour ginger oil, cleaned waxed ginger and ginger powder. The erection of the plant for processing 5 tons of fresh ginger per day has been completed. The unit has got a state of the art washing and cleaning system, distillation facility and a fluid bed drier for making ginger powder.

With the commissioning of the unit in the state of Sikkim, the marketing of ginger, which was hitherto dependant of the climatic conditions for value addition, will under go a sea change and the produce is expected to generate remunerative prices for the farmer. The ginger produced in the state being ‘Organic’, the value added products are expected to fetch premium price. The institute extended its process and engineering skills for setting up the facility and it is the first commercial venture set up with CSIR assistance for processing ginger in the state of Sikkim. A detailed project report for setting up a similar venture in the state of Mizoram was submitted to ministry of Horticulture, Mizoram government and a unit is expected to be set up shortly.