Srinagar, Aug 12 (KNS) : Food waste will now help power clean energy at the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), with Minister for Science & Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Food & Civil Supplies, and ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma, today inaugurating a pilot biogas plant at the institute.

Sharma said the Omar Abdullah-led government remains committed to advancing the “waste-to-wealth” mission through sustainable, innovative solutions. “The mini biogas plant at SKIMS is a true representation of this vision,” he remarked, urging schools and colleges to adopt similar initiatives to instill environmental responsibility in young minds.

Commending SKIMS for leading the way in clean energy adoption, Sharma said such projects demonstrate a forward-looking approach to environmental management.

SKIMS Director, Prof. (Dr) Ashraf Ganie, said the plant would promote environmental conservation while improving institutional energy efficiency. He revealed that plans are in motion for a complete solar rooftop installation at the institute.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“These projects will make us energy-efficient and enable us to serve patients more effectively and compassionately,” he said.

Arvind Kaul, Channel Partner of Mailhem Ikos Environment Pvt. Ltd., explained that the patented mini biogas system uses anaerobic digestion to turn organic waste into biogas and organic manure. Compact and portable, the plant requires minimal civil work, making it ideal for institutions, communities, and industries.

The process involves shredding waste, forming a slurry, and digesting it in a modified Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) digester. The biogas produced can be used for cooking or power generation, while the leftover sludge becomes a high-quality fertilizer. Kaul noted that the system is cost-effective, reduces waste transport expenses, and supports both environmental and energy conservation goals.

The SKIMS pilot plant is expected to serve as a model for similar projects across Jammu and Kashmir, promoting cleaner environments and renewable energy adoption.(KNS)