Proposed extension centre of CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology to focus on core areas of research and product development

A satellite centre planned by the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) at the Bio 360 Life Sciences Park here at Thonnakkal will focus on core areas of research and product development, including solar-driven hydrogen production from wastewater.

A State Cabinet meeting on Thursday (June 5) gave the nod for establishing the ‘Extension Centre for Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship.’ The Cabinet approval also included allocation of 10 acres of land on a 90-year lease at the Bio 360 Life Sciences Park.

Collaborative hub

“The proposed CSIR-NIIST innovation centre will serve as a collaborative hub fostering interdisciplinary research, product development, and entrepreneurship,” NIIST officials said.

Major initiatives planned under it include a pilot plant for the solar-driven production of hydrogen from wastewater, an AYUSH manufacturing and standardisation hub, a production line for biopolymer and bio-based products, a bio-enabler bio manufacturing unit and a regional resource development centre.

It will also be the first satellite centre of NIIST, a laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). NIIST described the decision to establish the centre as a strategic move aligned with its mission to drive sustainable, inclusive innovation and reinforce Kerala’s position as a hub for science-driven entrepreneurship.

The Bio 360 Life Sciences Park is a flagship initiative of the State government’s Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC).

Published - June 06, 2025 06:28 pm IST