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DIMAPUR — In a remarkable initiative aligning with "Vocal for Local," "Sustainable Development Goals" and "Make in India" campaigns, the Corrosion and Electrochemistry Research Group (CERG) at Nagaland University, Lumami headquarters, has pioneered the creation of environmentally benign colours for the festival of Holi.
Led by vice chancellor Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik and supervised by Prof. Ambrish Singh, the project aims to provide a safer alternative to traditional Holi colours, which often cause adverse health effects such as nausea, headache, itching and skin irritation, stated an update from the university.
Utilising indigenous plant species abundant in Nagaland's rich natural flora, the Ph.D. research scholars of CERG including Therola Sangtam, Limasenla Longkumer, Vetezo Venuh, Akhiu Y Yimchunger and Vilabeilie Rutsa meticulously prepared colours from plant extracts, fruit extracts, flowers, rose water, starch and cornflour.
It stated that the innovative process involved multiple steps of extraction, mixing, drying and filtering to ensure a safe and skin-friendly final product.
“The colours, derived from edible ingredients, are not only 100% safe for use but also eco-friendly, addressing concerns about environmental sustainability. Unlike commercial colours available in the market, these natural colours eliminate the risk of skin irritation and other health issues,” the statement read.
It informed that the project not only promotes sustainable practices but also holds significant socio-economic implications for Nagaland.
It stated that with minimal training, villagers can engage in colour production, generating employment opportunities and fostering rural entrepreneurship. It added that farmers can directly supply raw materials, fostering a symbiotic relationship between agriculture and industry.
The list of ingredients utilised in the production of the eco-friendly colours included mustard leaf (Brassica juncea L.), coriander (Coriandrum sativum), spinach (Spinacia oleracea), beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.), mulberry (Morus spp.), turmeric (Curcuma longa), rose (Rosa Rubiginosa), hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa sinensis), carrot, rhododendron Arboreum.
Report further stated that the Corrosion and Electrochemistry Research Group at Nagaland University continues to exemplify innovation, sustainability and community engagement through such projects, contributing to a brighter, safer and more vibrant future for all.