Bihar Agricultural University Gets Patent for Mango Seed Hydrogel to Save Water

Bihar is once again making India proud on the global stage with its innovative approach to agriculture. Researchers at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, have turned a humble waste product—mango seeds—into a world-class agricultural innovation. Recently, Bihar Agricultural University (BAU) has secured a patent for its innovative mango seed hydrogel, an eco-friendly product capable of absorbing and retaining up to 400% of its weight in soil moisture. To know about this invention and its importance in the real world, keep reading. What Is Mango Seed Hydrogel? Mango seed hydrogel is a special material that can absorb and hold very large amounts of water, making it highly valuable for farming. Researchers at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, were the first to invent a method to create hydrogel from mango seed kernels, which usually end up as waste. It has an extraordinary capacity to absorb up to 499% of its own weight in water. This innovation is unique because it combines waste-to-wealth recycling with high water-retention power, making it a globally significant agricultural breakthrough. BAU Secures Patent for Mango Seed Hydrogel: Turning Waste into Wealth On August 21, 2025, Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour was granted a patent for its unique method of producing hydrogel from mango seed kernels. This innovation was carried out under the leadership of Vice-Chancellor Dr. D. R. Singh, with key contributions from researchers Rajesh Kumar, Deep Lata, Mohd Wasim Siddiqui, and V. Shajeeda Banu. The main goal behind this invention is not only to support agriculture but also to strengthen India’s “waste-to-wealth” mission by transforming discarded mango seeds into a product of global value. Process of Making the Mango Seed Hydrogel: Collecting the raw material – Mango seeds, usually discarded as waste, are collected and the kernels are separated. Cleaning and drying – The kernels are carefully cleaned and dried to remove impurities and moisture. Grinding into powder – The dried kernels are crushed into a fine powder. Treatment stage – The powder is treated with heat and safe chemicals, and blended with natural polymers to improve its water-holding capacity. Transformation – The natural starches and compounds in the mango seed powder are modified into a gel-like material that swells when it comes into contact with water. Final preparation – The material is washed, dried again, and shaped into small granules or particles. Result – The finished hydrogel can absorb 400–499% of its own weight in water, releasing it slowly into the soil to keep crops hydrated during dry spells. Why Mango Seed Hydrogel Matters: Key Benefits for Soil, Water, and Crops The mango seed hydrogel invented by BAU, Sabour is not just a scientific breakthrough but also a practical solution for farmers and the environment. By turning waste into a useful product, it brings multiple advantages that can strengthen agriculture and support sustainability. Saves Water – Absorbs 400–499% of its weight and releases slowly into soil. Helps Farmers – Reduces irrigation costs, supports crops in droughts. Eco-Friendly – Made from waste mango seeds, biodegradable and natural. Waste-to-Wealth – Turns discarded seeds into a valuable product. Boosts Agriculture – Improves soil health, crop yield, and promotes sustainable farming. Conclusion BAU’s mango seed hydrogel patent shows how Bihar is turning waste into something useful, giving farmers a way to save water, improve soil, and make India proud in green farming. This natural product helps crops survive dry weather, cuts irrigation costs, and highlights Bihar’s growing role as a center of new farming ideas.