Punjab Startup Innovates Eco-Friendly Tableware from Paddy Straw
Farm waste to eco plates: CUP startup makes eco-friendly tableware from paddy straw

Image: Hindustan Times
A startup at the Central University of Punjab has developed biodegradable tableware from paddy straw, aiming to tackle agricultural waste and reduce plastic usage. Founded by entrepreneur Mriganka Saha, the initiative received support under the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI).
- 01The startup, incubated at the Central University of Punjab, focuses on creating biodegradable plates, cups, and tumblers from paddy stubble.
- 02Mriganka Saha, a postgraduate from IIT-Guwahati, leads the project, which uses no chemicals in the manufacturing process.
- 03The initiative aims to address the air quality issues caused by paddy stubble burning in Punjab and Delhi NCR.
- 04The startup received financial support of ₹8.30 lakh under the ignition grant scheme from the CUP research & development foundation.
- 05Each biodegradable plate is priced at ₹3.5, making it a potential profitable venture while promoting sustainable practices.
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A pioneering initiative in Punjab has emerged from the Central University of Punjab (CUP), where a startup is producing biodegradable tableware from paddy straw. Founded by entrepreneur Mriganka Saha, this project is part of the National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations (NIDHI) and aims to provide sustainable alternatives to plastic tableware. The manufacturing process involves no chemicals, allowing the products to decompose naturally or be used as animal feed. The pilot unit was inaugurated on May 23 and has already sourced around 100 quintals of paddy residue from local farmers. This initiative not only addresses the agricultural waste problem but also aims to improve air quality in Punjab and Delhi NCR, where stubble burning is a major issue. The startup has received ₹8.30 lakh in funding and plans to sell each plate for ₹3.5, presenting a viable business model while contributing to environmental sustainability.
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The startup addresses the environmental issues posed by paddy stubble burning by converting waste into eco-friendly products.
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