Revitalizing Arunachal's traditional drinks with science

ITANAGAR, May 14: State science and technology secretary Repo Ronya conducted a thorough review on Monday of the project titled “Study on Traditional Alcoholic Beverages (Apong/Chang) of Arunachal Pradesh for enhancing Quality, Self-life and Commercialization” at Dibrugarh University in Assam.

The research and development (R&D) project, crafted by the Arunachal Pradesh State Council for Science & Technology (APSCS&T), was executed in collaboration with the Dibrugarh University’s department of chemistry.

The primary objective of the research was to extend the shelf-life and refine the taste and texture of various traditional alcoholic beverages (millet, barley, etc.) of the state through scientific and qualitative optimization, and to develop a business model for their commercialization.

The event commenced with APSCS&T joint director Dr Debajit Mahanta shedding light on the project's inception, followed by a detailed technical presentation on the project by the University’s instrumentation officer, Dr Jitu Ranjan Chetia.

Ronya, in his remarks, suggested that while moving towards commercialization of the technology through prospective entrepreneurial development, the indigenous essence of the traditional alcoholic beverages of Arunachal should be preserved in terms of its taste.

He emphasized that this would be a crucial factor in gaining widespread acceptance among the local populace.

Ronya further urged the department of industries to take the lead in promoting entrepreneurial ventures of the locals by establishing production and bottling plants.

State industries deputy director Goli Angu proposed that the department could initiate this process on a pilot scale in collaboration with Dibrugarh University and APSCS&T initially, and then work towards a marketability approach for the products.

Among others, Dibrugarh University’s R&D dean Dr Surajit Borkotoky, Chemistry head of department Dr Gitika Borah, and Principal Investigator of the project Dr Pradip Kr Gogoi were present at the event.