Celebrating 60 Years of CSIR-IITR: A Commitment to Public Health
The CSIR-Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (CSIR-IITR) recently celebrated its 60th anniversary in Lucknow. This milestone event highlighted the institute’s significant contributions to public health and its ambitious future goals. Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, addressed the gathering, praising the institute’s achievements. He emphasized its unique position as one of the few institutions of its kind in India and globally. The event served as a platform to showcase the institute’s past successes and its vision for a healthier, toxin-free India by 2047.
Milestone Achievements and Future Goals
Dr. Jitendra Singh acknowledged the pivotal role of CSIR-IITR in addressing public health challenges. He specifically mentioned the institute’s efforts in investigating a mysterious disease reported in the Rajouri district of Jammu & Kashmir. The minister called for an expanded reach of the institute to ensure a “toxin-free India” by 2047, aligning with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat. This ambitious goal reflects the institute’s commitment to improving public health and safety.
The minister also highlighted the institute’s support for startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Initiatives like the DSIR-CRTDH Environmental Monitoring Hub and BIRAC-BioNEST have already supported over 30 startups and 55 MSMEs. These efforts foster innovation in sectors such as environmental monitoring and pollution control. Dr. Singh urged the institute to adopt modern outreach strategies, including social media, to enhance visibility and connect with stakeholders and the public.
Innovations and Technological Advancements
As part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, several key facilities were inaugurated at CSIR-IITR. These included the Diamond Jubilee Arches, the new Diamond Jubilee Block, and the NaMo-ATAL facility. The third-floor TDIC, which serves as the operational hub for the BioNEST initiative, was also opened. This initiative aims to promote biotech startups and research collaborations, further enhancing the institute’s research and innovation capabilities.
During the event, Dr. Singh unveiled a commemorative stamp celebrating the institute’s remarkable journey. Several innovative products were launched, including Apatkaleen AHAAR, a high-nutrition food solution for disaster relief, and NFit: Nutritious Food in Tablets, designed for extreme environments. Another notable innovation, SenzSCAn, is a portable diagnostic tool for sickle cell anemia, aimed at underserved regions. These advancements underscore CSIR-IITR’s commitment to translating research into practical solutions for real-world challenges.
Commitment to Public Health and Collaboration
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the importance of collaboration between CSIR-IITR and other institutions, such as IITs and medical research centers. This synergy is vital for fostering a holistic approach to science and innovation. The minister also highlighted the institute’s role during national emergencies, such as the Odisha cyclone and the epidemic dropsy outbreak. He praised CSIR-IITR for its unique position as the only CSIR laboratory with both NABL accreditation and GLP certification, ensuring adherence to international quality standards.
The event also marked the launch of the WARMEST and EARTH-25 conferences, aimed at fostering research collaboration on environmental and health challenges. Dr. Singh reiterated the institute’s commitment to promoting scientific temper among students through its Jigyasa programs. He encouraged the institute to continue developing affordable technologies that directly benefit citizens, such as tests for food adulteration. By focusing on reducing toxins, both chemical and social, CSIR-IITR aims to play a crucial role in achieving a healthy and prosperous India by its centenary in 2047.
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