9 March 2025: “Using banana fiber as an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic materials can open new economic opportunities while supporting environmental conservation efforts,” said Pooja Elangbam, IAS, Director of Tourism, during Chankorb Pvt Ltd’s first product launch event at Hotel Imphal, North AOC, today.
The company introduced a range of innovative eco-friendly products made from banana fiber, aiming to promote sustainability and economic growth in the region. As the Chief Guest, Pooja Elangbam praised the initiative and expressed optimism about the market potential of these biodegradable products, both locally and globally.
She emphasized the importance of continued research into indigenous plant-based materials and securing patents to protect such innovations from unauthorized claims. “These efforts can position Manipur as a hub for sustainable industry,” she remarked.
Dr. Atom Anupama, Proprietor of Chankorb Pvt Ltd, highlighted the untapped potential of banana fiber, which is often discarded as waste. She explained how these fibers can be processed into threads for handloom and handicraft products, offering an eco-friendly solution to industries seeking biodegradable alternatives to plastic.
The event was presided over by Neeta Arambam, Joint Director of the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur, and Prof. Ch. Ibohal Singh, Director of the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Skill Development at Manipur University. The launch is seen as a significant step toward fostering sustainable and innovative industries in the state.
