North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR)

North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) promotes technology-driven development in Northeast India by supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable solutions.

Table of Contents

Context: Union Minister of S&T Dr. Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus of NECTAR in Shillong.

About North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR)

North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) is an autonomous society, set up under the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. (HQ – Shillong, Meghalaya)
It was established in 2012 by merging two missions, viz., the National Mission for Bamboo Application (NMBA) and the Mission for Geospatial Applications (MGA).

NECTAR’s Key Initiatives

Mission Saffron Initiative: Launched in 2021 to expand saffron cultivation in Northeast India.
- Current cultivation regions: Menchukha (Arunachal Pradesh) & Yuksom (Sikkim).
- Upcoming expansion: Nagaland and Manipur
Advancements in Bamboo and Honey Production: Boosting sustainable agriculture and economic empowerment.

About Saffron

Saffron is a highly valued spice derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower.
It is often referred to as “red gold” due to its high price and labour-intensive harvesting process.
Saffron is primarily used in culinary, medicinal and cosmetic applications.
Major saffron-producing countries include:
- Iran – The largest producer (over 90% of global production).
- India (Kashmir) – Known for high-quality saffron, especially from Pampore, Jammu & Kashmir.
- Spain – Produces Spanish saffron, famous for its milder flavour.
- Greece, Afghanistan, Morocco – Other key producers.