They have been researching to find out solutions on the different problems of the common people. Their work is not just for the money making. They are trying to develop technology which can make positive changes in society.
Science for Society (S4S) is the name of platform which is known for the Innovation. 4 young innovators are utilising their knowledge for the welfare of society. Science is the great path to find out solutions on critical issues of common people with tagline of ‘Sustainable Innovations for Food Ecosystem’.
Vaibhav Tidke, a Chemical engineer from the Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai could have make his glorious career in five star corporate world innovated Idea of the Science for society. He had been in touch with Jnanprabodhini in his school age at Ambejogai, Maharashtra. Vaibhav inspired by the work of Shri Prasad Chikshe at Jnanprabodhini. Vaibhav learned the values of nation building and sense of volunteer. Hence Vaibhav decided to contribute in work of Nation Building. His friends Dr Shital Kasat , Ganesh Bhere, Swapnil Kokate also inspired by his line of thinking and the base of Science for Society has been formed in 2007. Vaibhav’s first project has awarded in 2007 on the International Level. ‘Agilent Award’ is also received by Vaibhav for the same project in 2008. Team is now expanded with diverse team members like Dr Tushar Gaware and Ashwin Pawade bringing in interdisciplinary expertise for the company.
Team S4S works identified agriculture as the key focus area to work upon. It has developed and commercialised range of food processing technologies.
India annually produces 81 million tons of fruits and 162 million tons of vegetables. But 60 million tons fruit and vegetables are lost as post-harvest losses in India annually. Science for Society’s Solar Conduction Dryer (SCD) is a solar powered food dehydrator to reduce moisture content in agro-produce and preserve them up to 1 year. Farmers can earn additional income through sells of dried products to food processing companies.
This system is designed and developed by Science for Society and supported by Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai and has received awards from UNESCO, UNEP, USAID, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bayer and Dell. Science for Society has filed both Indian and International patents. 650 dryers have been installed on the ground till date.
The key other of S4S is turmeric processing where the new technology by S4S called HaldiTech brought down turmeric processing time from 30 days to 1 day and made Indian turmeric farmers life easy. HaldiTech produces world class turmeric with good ayurvedic value, better colour and flavor. HaldiTech will bring in international patent for India for processing turmeric. S4S is leading the way of inventing innovations required for Indian farmers and food processing industry to make India the leader in food processing, bringing Dr Kalam’s vision to reality.
Prasad Joshi (The writer is Maharashtra Correspondent)
