Considering the importance of the bioplastics, CSIR-IHBT has identified a unique Himalayan bacterium isolate PCH194 capable of synthesizing PHAs up to 70% of its dry cell weight. In addition, the bacterium simultaneously produces pigment violacein that finds application in textile, cosmetics and pharma industries. Violacein has been attributed with antioxidant, antitumoural, antibacterial, antiviral, and antiprotozoal activities.