Onlykashmir.in News Desk
In a landmark move for animal biotechnology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has officially licensed its patented genetically modified Lactobacillus plantarum NC8 probiotic feed additive to Kolkata-based Invati Creations Pvt. Ltd. The product will be commercialised across India under the brand name ‘Salnil’.
The digital signing ceremony—SKUAST-K’s first of its kind—included Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai (Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K), Dr. Jitendra Kumar (MD, BIRAC), and Mr. Mukesh Agarwal (CEO, Invati Creations).
Prof. Ganai described it as “a great day for SKUAST-K,” adding, “Universities and other R&D institutions develop a large number of technologies, but only a few are transferred for public use.” He also credited DBT and BIRAC for their continued support and noted that SKUAST-K leads among 75 SAUs with 85 patents and 75 startups.
Dr. Vinita Jindal of BIRAC highlighted the strategic value of such transfers for economic growth, while Dr. Jitendra Kumar emphasized BIRAC’s role in bridging research and industry.
Mr. Mukesh Agarwal announced the 20-year licensing agreement and said, “We are committed to leveraging our expertise in nanotechnology bioscience to ensure widespread production and distribution of this advanced probiotic.”
Prof. Syed Mudasir Andrabi, Head of Animal Biotechnology and lead innovator, detailed the 7–8-year R&D journey, highlighting the contribution of his PhD scholar Dr. Junaid Nazir. He noted the probiotic targets gut health, nutrient absorption, and resilience in poultry.
Acknowledging institutional support, Prof. Andrabi thanked Prof. Riyaz A Shah, Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, and Dr. Naveed Hamid for their contributions.
Prof. Haroon R Naik stressed the transfer’s importance for the food industry, while the Head of SKUAST-K’s Innovation Centre Dr. Naveed Hamid remarked, “This innovation will significantly contribute to food safety, economic sustainability, and animal health by providing an effective alternative to antibiotics.”
With Indian patents secured and global IP rights underway, the technology marks a major advancement toward sustainable and antibiotic-free poultry farming.
