India Celebrates Indigenous Drug Development
On January 5, 2023, the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) celebrated its 40th Foundation Day at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, who holds multiple portfolios including Science and Technology, announced a significant milestone in India’s pharmaceutical sector. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has successfully developed an indigenous technology for producing paracetamol, a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer. This initiative aims to reduce India’s dependence on imported raw materials and aligns with the government’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” or self-reliant India.
Indigenous Development of Paracetamol
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the importance of the newly developed paracetamol technology during his address. He explained that the CSIR’s innovation will allow India to manufacture paracetamol domestically, which is crucial for public health. Currently, India relies heavily on imports for the key raw materials needed to produce this essential medication. By developing indigenous technology, the CSIR aims to not only ensure a steady supply of paracetamol but also to make it more affordable for the Indian population.
Karnataka-based Satya Deeptha Pharmaceuticals Ltd will be the first company to utilize this breakthrough technology. This partnership signifies a step toward self-sufficiency in the pharmaceutical sector. The initiative is expected to create jobs and stimulate local economies while ensuring that the Indian healthcare system is less vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions. Dr. Singh emphasized that this development is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in scientific research and industrial innovation.
Celebrating Technological Transfers
The 40th Foundation Day of DSIR was not just about the announcement of paracetamol technology; it also marked the transfer of 16 additional technologies from CSIR to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This transfer includes nine technologies from CSIR-CSIO Chennai and six from CSIR-CEERI Pilani. These technologies focus on various sectors, including scientific instruments and healthcare solutions.
The initiative is part of the “100 Days 100 Technologies” campaign aimed at fostering collaboration between CSIR and MSMEs. LAGHU UDYOG BHARATI, an organization representing MSMEs in India, has been instrumental in this campaign. So far, 57 technologies have been transferred under this initiative, showcasing the government’s commitment to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. Dr. Singh praised the efforts of CSIR in facilitating these transfers, which are expected to enhance the capabilities of MSMEs and contribute to India’s economic growth.
Vision for Future Innovation
In his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh reflected on the past decade’s achievements in India’s scientific and technological landscape. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership for fostering an environment conducive to innovation. The minister noted that before 2014, there was a lack of prioritization for innovation and entrepreneurship. However, recent collaborations between government and non-government sectors have led to significant advancements, particularly in the space sector.
Dr. Singh also emphasized the need for a “Whole of Government” and “Whole of Science” approach to tackle the challenges ahead. He called for exploring non-government funding sources for innovation and highlighted the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF) initiative, which aims to raise 60% of its funds from non-government sectors. This approach is expected to empower the scientific community and pave the way for groundbreaking ventures in the coming years.
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