Bhavnagar: The Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI) in Bhavnagar has developed a state-of-the-art experimental salt works spread across 180 acres to showcase lab-developed salt production technologies on a large scale. The CI STAR Modern World-Class Salt Works, aimed at demonstrating innovative methods to enhance salt production in India, was inaugurated today. The inauguration coincided with CSMCRI’s 72nd foundation day.

N Kalaiselvi, Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi, inaugurated the facility.

This advanced salt works is designed to improve salt yields using scientific techniques and will serve as a platform for testing new technologies beneficial to the chlor-alkali sector. According to CSMCRI, the facility will focus on optimized salt production through precision-controlled brine flow, scientifically designed brine fields, efficient rainwater and resource management, mineral recovery, and greater use of solar energy—all while mitigating climate impact.

Arvind Kumar, head of the salt and marine chemicals division, and Bhoomi Andharia, project lead, stated that the facility will serve as a hub for researchers and industry stakeholders as India aspires to become the world’s second-largest salt producer.