Suzuki R&D Centre Partners with NDDB to Invest in Biogas Development

Suzuki R&D Centre
Image Courtesy: Suzuki R&D Centre

Suzuki R&D Centre India Pvt Ltd (SRDI), a subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, has signed an agreement with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to invest in NDDB’s biogas-focused subsidiary, NDDB Mrida. This partnership aims to enhance sustainable energy solutions and promote organic fertilizers. Under the agreement finalized on Wednesday, Suzuki R&D Centre India Pvt Ltd (SRDI) will invest in NDDB’s wholly-owned subsidiary, NDDB Mrida. This subsidiary focuses on promoting household-level biogas plants and operates an innovative large-capacity dung-based biogas plant that powers a dairy facility. NDDB Mrida also produces and sells slurry-based organic fertilizers under the Sudhan brand. While the specifics of SRDI’s investment remain undisclosed, the partnership aims to drive progress in clean energy and sustainable agricultural practices.

As a joint venture of NDDB and SRDI, NDDB Mrida is poised to advance the shared vision of delivering clean energy solutions and organic fertilizers to reduce reliance on chemical alternatives. Dr. Meenesh Shah, Chairman of NDDB, called the partnership a landmark collaboration between the dairy and automobile industries. He emphasized its potential to enhance value for dairy farmers by utilizing dung efficiently to produce renewable energy and fertilizers while fostering a circular economy. He added that Suzuki’s expertise would significantly contribute to the long-term sustainability of the dairy sector.

Toshihiro Suzuki, President of Suzuki Motor Corporation, visited Mujkuva village in Anand to observe biogas plants and solar pumps in operation. He also engaged with local farmers and explored the workings of the village dairy cooperative. Previously, SRDI collaborated with NDDB to establish dung-based compressed biogas plants in Gujarat, with four such plants under development in Banaskantha in partnership with Banas Dairy. Plans are underway for additional projects with Amul Dairy, Dudhsagar Dairy, and other dairy cooperatives, further strengthening this innovative collaboration.

The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) was established in 1965 with the mission of promoting, financing, and supporting India’s dairy sector. Headquartered in Anand, Gujarat, NDDB plays a pivotal role in empowering dairy farmers and advancing rural prosperity. Through its innovative programs like Operation Flood, NDDB has transformed India into the largest producer of milk globally, significantly contributing to rural development and nutritional security.

Beyond milk production, NDDB focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, renewable energy initiatives, and animal health. It also supports cooperatives and provides technical expertise, ensuring the efficient utilization of resources for the benefit of farmers and the environment.

Suzuki R&D Centre India Pvt Ltd (SRDI) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Suzuki Motor Corporation, focused on fostering innovation and sustainable solutions for the Indian market. Based in India, SRDI combines Suzuki’s global expertise with localized research to drive advancements in automotive technology and renewable energy.

The center actively collaborates with organizations like NDDB to develop biogas and clean energy solutions that benefit both rural and urban communities. With a commitment to sustainability, SRDI works on pioneering projects such as dung-based compressed biogas plants, aligning with Suzuki’s broader goals of creating eco-friendly technologies and promoting a circular economy.