Researchers at the Bapuji Institute of Engineering and Technology (BIET) in Davanagere have developed a smart tomato preservation system that uses sound and light waves instead of chemicals to keep tomatoes fresh for up to 30 days. This innovation addresses the significant problem of post-harvest losses in India, where over 25% of harvested tomatoes are lost annually due to inadequate preservation facilities.
How the System Works
The system relies on sound and light waves to extend the freshness of tomatoes during the critical post-harvest stage. By avoiding chemical preservatives, it offers a clean and sustainable solution to one of agriculture's most persistent challenges. Crop spoilage not only leads to financial losses for farmers but also causes unstable prices and distress sales when markets are oversupplied.
Project Development and Recognition
The project was developed under the guidance of BIET principal Prof. HB Aravind and mechanical engineering department head Prof. G Manavendra, with Sharan AS, dean and chief researcher of the Skill Development Centre, leading the research. The innovation received a Rs 20 lakh grant from the Union government, enabling the project to move from laboratory research to practical application. It also gained national recognition by ranking among the top 20 entries out of 1,376 submissions in the Union government's Tomato Grand Challenge.
What began as a small idea in 2017 has now evolved into a promising technology with real-world impact. For farmers, the system represents an opportunity for better prices, reduced waste, and improved dignity in their livelihoods. Prof. HB Aravind stated, "Our team has developed a smart tomato preservation system that will help farmers store their produce longer and sell it when they receive better prices."
Additional Achievement: Students Win Bronze
In another achievement, students of BIET Davanagere won a bronze medal by securing third place in the installation event at the 25th VTU State-Level Cultural Festival, held recently at Acharya Institute of Technology, Bengaluru. The event's theme, 'Nurse's Revenge', was creatively interpreted by students Srujana Gouri S, Niranjan GN, Champa D, and Bharath D, who designed an installation model showcasing their artistic skills, earning them third place at the state-level competition.
