Action Taken Report
Nothing substantial could be achived during the first quarter of the Phase I approved activities due to various reasons. One of the main reason for its delay in taking action was long waiting for a reply from PCRA on a letter written by us to get feedback on action choosen to be taken up by NEDFi. A letter had been written to PCRA inumerating various activities that would be taken up by NEDFi and PCRA on February 1st , 2006. We received a reply only on 13.03.2006 where they have listed out almost all the activities that we decided to take up making us confused on the matter. It took more time on our part to send a reply of their letter of 13th March, 2006. The reply of which could be sent only on 05.06.2006 (copies enclosed).
Information on present status of Biodiesel activities undertaken by different organisations are being collected and it will take another 1-2 month to complete and process for a write-up.
Survey and data collection of information on indigeneously grown Jatropha are to be started w.e.f. current month. A brief report on it is a part of today’s agenda.
For collection of above information scientifically necessary papers (information sheets) have been collected from Dr. Hore, Principal Scientist, NBPGR (ICAR), Shillong.
For preparation of a Bulletin covering all aspects of Biodiesel cultivation with available information is in progress and it forms a part of present deliberation as ‘Package of Practices’ of Jatropha Cultivation.
As far as research needs no formal discussion could be organised. However priliminary discussion on research need and its implementation on partnership basis were held with R & D division of OIL, Duliajan. Sr. Scientist also attended a discussion on Biodiesel Programme Organised by DRDO, Ministry of Defence, GoI where research activities on partnership basis was also discussed.
Collection of superior varities from Jatropha growing states is to be undertaken by NEDFi, R & D Centre within the month of August.
Regarding manpower requirement to carry out the Biodiesel programme, NEDFi R & D Centre has already submitted a proposal and based on that one Director of R & D Centre and one Jr. Scientist have been appointed on contract basis. A couple of scientific manpower will be added soon.
