Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) hosted a high-level strategic meeting today to strengthen collaboration between academic research and industrial innovation. 

Chaired by Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, the session brought together prominent biotechnology and nutraceutical entrepreneurs from Bengaluru, Karnataka, to explore interdisciplinary partnership opportunities. The meeting focused on bridging the gap between laboratory-scale research and commercial technology transfer, specifically targeting sectors like sericulture, biotechnology, and functional food development.

The industry delegation including, Dr Srinivas, CEO of Aspartika Biotech Pvt Ltd, Dr Mousumi Mondal, Director of Mallipatra Nutraceutical Pvt Ltd, Aswathy Das, Director of Mightkondria Innovations LLP, and representatives from Lrigu Wellness Innovation LLP. Coordinated by Dr Aabid Khaliq Tantray of the College of Temperate Sericulture, Mirgund, the discussions identified several critical pathways for developing market-ready products. The entrepreneurs briefed on their existing collaborations with institutions like Sri Paripoorna Sanathana Ayurvedic Medical College, highlighting their experience in the scientific validation of nutraceutical and Ayurvedic formulations.

Primary focus of the deliberations was the establishment of a Common Instrumentation Facility to support advanced research in sericulture and the utilisation of its by-products. The participants also discussed the design of antibiotic-free poultry feed solutions and the creation of innovative nutraceutical formulations that leverage the unique biodiversity of the region. Beyond product development, the agenda emphasized the need for industry-oriented academic and skill-based programs, student exchange initiatives, and the strengthening of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) facilitation to protect and commercialize university-led innovations.

Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai commended the visiting delegation for their efforts in building reputable enterprises from the ground up. He emphasized that such industry–academia partnerships are essential for accelerating innovation and translating scientific research into socially impactful, commercially viable solutions.