The R&D division strives to keep abreast of the latest dynamics in the development sector and propels scientific research in fields of food, agriculture and environment, thereby contributing to the knowledge domain as well as pioneering the dissemination of this knowledge in palatable form to the drivers of development across the country. Of the many functions, that the division plays, its core being able to translate scientific know how into practical and functional inputs for the farmers, thereby being able to customize best farming practices, encapsulate best agri technologies for progressive farmers, promote technology update and motivate behavior change through impactful learning methodologies. It also undertakes field oriented research projects on soil health, integrated remediation of contaminated soil using phytotechnologies and climate smart agriculture etc,
NAF has been recognized as Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (Siro) By Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), GOI. NAF undertakes scientific and industrial research in the fields of agriculture, food technology and environmental safety etc. Consultancy services for undertaking scientific studies in the above fields are also offered by NAF.
Highlights of Research Projects Undertaken:
Under the research theme Safe Food from Clean Environment formulated for the year 2020-21, different research experiments have been undertaken by National Agro Foundation Lab as given below:
Soil Mapping for Sustainable Agriculture:
Till now 226 soil samples has been collected from 10 villages and analyzed for various soil parameters. Preparation of digital soil maps for the 10 villages is under progress.Development of Novel Products from Cow Urine:
Distilled cow urine and enriched cow urine have been developed and seed germination test was completed using the developed products. Work regarding the development of pellets of cow urine is under progress
Mitigation of entry of heavy metals in to the food chain:Various types of bio chars were collected and the adsorption/desorption studied with respect to different heavy metals as well as bio char was initiated. The adsorption of Chromium (Cr) with respect to all the three types of bio char has been completed.
Assessment of heavy metal accumulation in fruits and vegetables and its impact on their phyto chemical properties:Sample collection was initiated and vegetable samples were collected from Thiruvanmiyur market, processed and analyzed for heavy metal content.
New Food Product Development :