The CSIR–Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT), Bhubaneswar, in association with the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) and its Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH), on Monday hosted a one-day training and demonstration on “ReNeSa: Technology for Natural Disinfectant Surface Cleaner.”
The program, held at the Environmental Biology Laboratory, opened with a lamp-lighting ceremony and the CSIR-IMMT theme song. Dr. N.K. Dhal welcomed participants and introduced the guests. Dr. Yatendra Chaudhury, CRTDH Coordinator, highlighted DSIR’s commitment to sustainable innovation. Dr. Sony Pandey briefed the audience on the ReNeSa technology, while Ms. Monalli C. Mohanty of Livelihood Alternatives Pvt. Ltd. discussed its potential to create community-based livelihood opportunities.
Earlier, Livelihood Alternatives (LA) signed a technology transfer agreement with CSIR-IMMT for the formulation of the bio-based natural surface disinfectant, ReNeSa. PACE Foundation ( a not for profit wing of Livelihood Alternatives) is already associated with Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) across different districts of Odisha, is the implementation partner for scaling up the #technology among grassroots communities.
The event was attended by women SHG members from Sundargarh, Cuttack, and Sambalpur districts, who actively participated in the hands-on demonstrations. Experts emphasized that such technologies can provide affordable and sustainable hygiene solutions while reducing chemical usage and supporting local entrepreneurship.
ReNeSa is a plant-based, eco-friendly disinfectant designed to sanitize a variety of surfaces, including floors. Developed as a cost-effective alternative to chemical cleaners, it uses easily available natural ingredients and can be prepared at a small scale, making it ideal for homes, institutions, and local enterprises.