The Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) in Bhagalpur has successfully developed a dried and packaged form of Neera, a traditional beverage, with a long shelf life. This innovation was unveiled by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan after the university’s eighth convocation. The powdered Neera is packaged in hygienic sachets, making it a market-ready product that can be consumed throughout the year. This development is expected to create a sustainable business model for thousands of marginalized families in the state, particularly those involved in the palm tree industry.
The BAU’s Neera project was inspired by the state government’s Mukhyamantri Neera Samvardhan Yojana (MMNSY), launched by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The project aims to provide employment and financial support to palm tree owners and toddy tappers, especially the Pasi community. Previously, BAU scientists had developed a technology to process and preserve Neera in aluminum cans. However, the new preservation and packaging technology for producing powdered Neera is a significant improvement, making it suitable for long-distance marketing.
The vice-chancellor of BAU, D R Singh, highlighted the benefits of the sachet-packed powdered Neera, including preservation, cost-effectiveness, and extended shelf life. This innovative product will provide year-round livelihood support to those who supply the raw materials for Neera production. The university plans to launch the Neera powder commercially soon, which is expected to have a positive impact on the livelihoods of marginalized communities involved in the industry.
The introduction of powdered Neera in sachets is a significant step towards promoting the Neera industry in the state. It will not only provide a new market opportunity for the product but also help to improve the socio-economic conditions of the communities involved in its production. With its long shelf life and ease of marketing, the powdered Neera is poised to become a popular product, both within and outside the state. The BAU’s innovative approach to developing and packaging Neera has the potential to transform the industry and create a sustainable business model for marginalized families.