Latest news with #DepartmentofBiotechnology
The Hindu
14-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
BSL-3 lab at National Institute of Virology Kerala unit in Alappuzha ready, awaits certification
The establishment of a Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) Kerala unit, at Kuravanthodu in Alappuzha, has been completed. Officials said the laboratory would be made operational after it receives certification from the Department of Biotechnology under the Union government. Once functional, the facility will enable Nipah virus testing and final confirmation within the State. Currently, samples should be sent to NIV Pune for final confirmation. 'The BSL-3 lab will become operational soon. The trial run commenced three weeks ago and will continue for three months. Once the trial is complete, we will apply for certification from the Department of Biotechnology. After certification, the lab will be able to conduct diagnostic testing and research for various viral diseases, including Nipah. It can also conduct diagnostics, but not research, on Risk Group 4 pathogens,' said an official. The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) classifies laboratories into different categories from BSL 1 to 4 based on a combination of laboratory practices, safety equipment, and facilities. A BSL-3 lab is a high-containment facility intended for the testing and research of highly pathogenic and infectious agents. These labs include specialised safety systems and engineering controls. The NIV Kerala unit, functioning under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), was initially established as a BSL-2 facility in February 2008. It operated with limited infrastructure at the Government Medical College Hospital, Alappuzha, until late 2022, when it was relocated to a newly constructed permanent facility in Kuravanthodu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the new facility in Februray 2024. At present, the unit undertakes research on various locally prevalent viral diseases, focusing on epidemiological, virological, immunological, entomological and socio-behavioural aspects. Notably, the NIV Kerala unit was among the first four laboratories in India, apart from NIV Pune, the apex institution, to be designated as a State nodal laboratory for COVID-19 testing at the onset of the pandemic.
India Today
14-07-2025
- Science
- India Today
Shubhanshu Shukla undocking Live updates: Ax-4 crew to enter Dragon shortly
Union Minister Jitendra Singh says, "Today at around 4:30 PM, they will be undocked. The most important thing is that the experiments that Shubhanshu has done there, related to life sciences or plantation, the kits for that were provided from our Department of Biotechnology and our institutes like the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore and IIT... Indigenous kits, indigenous experiments, done by indigenous people, which will benefit and be used by other countries of the world... All the experiments were never imagined to date. On India's initiative, Shubhanshu has done this for the whole world... For the first time, experiments of Indian origin have been done by an Indian person for the world..." #WATCH | The Axiom-4 mission, featuring Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, is set to undock from the International Space Station today, July 14th. Union Minister Jitendra Singh says, "Today at around 4:30 PM, they will be undocked. The most important thing is that the experiments… — ANI (@ANI) July 14, 2025 Within 10 minutes of landing, SpaceX's recovery ship will reach the capsule to safely pull it out of the water and help the astronauts, including Shukla, get medical checkups. By around 4:00 p.m. IST, the team will be heading to a Nasa base, most likely the Vandenberg Space Force Base, for debriefing and begin their rehabilitation. This return is a proud moment for India's space journey. Shukla's mission supports Isro's Gaganyaan plans for 2027. The experiments done during the mission could help with future space farming and medical research, benefiting both space and life on Earth. Re-entry starts at about 2:40 p.m. IST (22 hours 10 minutes after undocking), when the spacecraft enters the atmosphere at 120 km altitude, speeding at 27,000 km/h. The heat shield will protect the capsule from temperatures as high as 1,900C, and the astronauts will feel forces three to four times their body weight during the 12–15 minute descent. During this, a brief communication blackout will occur due to plasma buildup on the spacecraft from the friction produced by the atmosphere. At around 2:53 p.m. IST, two small drogue parachutes will open at about 5.5 km height, slowing the spacecraft down from 156 m/s to 53 m/s. Then, four large primary parachutes will deploy at around 1.8 km, reducing the speed further to about 7 m/s. The Dragon is expected to land in the Pacific Ocean at 3:00 p.m. IST. The Crew Dragon spacecraft will stay in space for the next 21 hours, flying freely around Earth while preparing to return. During this time, the crew—led by Shukla—will use touchscreen controls to keep an eye on the systems, making sure everything from life support to navigation is working fine. Meanwhile, ground teams will plan the re-entry path, aiming for a safe splashdown in the Pacific Ocean to avoid debris risks. About 21 hours after leaving the space station (around 1:30 p.m. IST, July 15), the spacecraft will drop its trunk, which holds the solar panels. After this, it will switch to battery power. Roughly 40 minutes later (around 2:10 p.m. IST), Crew Dragon will fire its engines for about 12 minutes to slow down by 100 m/s. This will change its orbit to guide it back into Earth's atmosphere. At 4:30 p.m. IST, the Crew Dragon will undock, releasing docking hooks and executing a series of Draco thruster burns each lasting 1.5 seconds, adding 0.15 m/s speed for separation from the ISS. About 10 minutes post-undocking at 4:40 pm IST, a Depart 1 Burn will increase the separation rate to 1.25 m/s, safely distancing the spacecraft from the ISS. Grabbing the morning-coffee mug is muscle memory on Earth. But at the International Space Station (ISS), even that's a feat of science and improvisation. With Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla set to return from the ISS after 18 days, here's a peek into the strange, disciplined, and ingenious life 400 km above Earth. READ MORE HERE Here are some iconic images from Gp Capt Shubhanshu Shukla's time aboard the Space Station. Astronaut Jonny Kim shared images of the astronauts from the farewell ceremony. He said, "In this picture we have eight astronauts representing the United States, Japan, India, Hungary and Poland. It's been a pleasure getting to know and work with these professionals, and it's been amazing to watch the ground collaboration for research between our partner nations." We don't get in our flight suits often, but chance had us all decked out so we took advantage and took some photos with our new crewmates. In this picture we have eight astronauts representing the United States, Japan, India, Hungary and Poland. It's been a pleasure getting to… — Jonny Kim (@JonnyKimUSA) July 13, 2025 Preparations for departure begin three hours before undocking, around 1:30 p.m. IST on July 14, 2025. The crew will stow scientific samples, such as Isro's microalgae and plant seeds, in the Crew Dragon's pressurised cabin, donning SpaceX pressure suits for safety. Ground teams at SpaceX and Nasa Mission Control will verify the spacecraft's propulsion, life support, and communication systems, while the ISS's solar arrays are stabilised. The hatch between the ISS's Harmony module and the Crew Dragon will be sealed, with leak checks ensuring integrity. The Dragon spacecraft Grace will undock from the Space Station at 4:30 pm. It will take a 21-hour-long journey for the astronauts to align for re-entry into Earth's atmosphere and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean. Good afternoon, Welcome to India Today Science LIEV Blog as we begin the coverage of the historic undocking of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla with the Ax-4 mission from the International Space. Stay with us as we get you real-time information, updates and details of the return journey.
Hans India
08-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Jitendra calls for paradigm shift in agriculture sector
New Delhi: Technology in agriculture has progressed rapidly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership over the past 11 years, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Monday, calling for a paradigm shift in the agriculture sector by embracing cutting-edge technology and fostering greater synergy among stakeholders. Addressing the 96th annual general meeting of the ICAR Society at the NASC Complex in the capital, the minister said its full potential remained untapped at the ground level. Speaking at the event, chaired by Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Dr Singh underscored that every technology available globally is now accessible within India. 'It is no longer about whether technology is available—it is about how fast we adopt it and integrate it into our agricultural ecosystem to add value to our economy,' he told the gathering. The Minister stressed the importance of breaking mental and institutional silos, noting that many in the agriculture value chain are not just unaware of new technologies, but also unaware that they are unaware. Pointing to success stories like the Lavender Revolution in Jammu and Kashmir, where over 3,500 startups have emerged around lavender cultivation, Dr Singh emphasised how new-age farming — using satellite imaging, remote-controlled tractors, and order-based crop production — is reshaping the agricultural narrative. 'From lavender in Bhaderwah to off-season tulips grown for temple offerings, we have examples where science and strategy have combined to generate both income and innovation,' he noted. He also highlighted that biotech-driven advances, such as pest-resistant cotton developed through Department of Biotechnology initiatives and radiation-based food preservation techniques by the Department of Atomic Energy, are redefining how produce is grown, stored, and exported. 'Our mangoes now fly to the US thanks to these technologies. And yet, many states have not come forward to fully exploit these tools,' he observed. Dr Singh proposed more frequent and informal cross-ministerial interactions to ensure real-time exchange of innovations. 'We should not wait for annual meetings alone. Let's create working groups and reach out when solutions can be shared, spontaneously and practically,' he urged.
Hans India
07-07-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Dr Jitendra Singh calls for paradigm shift in agriculture sector
Technology in agriculture has progressed rapidly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership over the past 11 years, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Monday, calling for a paradigm shift in the agriculture sector by embracing cutting-edge technology and fostering greater synergy among stakeholders. Addressing the 96th annual general meeting of the ICAR Society at the NASC Complex in the capital, the minister said its full potential still remains untapped at the ground level. Speaking at the event, chaired by Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Dr Singh underscored that every technology available globally is now accessible within India. 'It is no longer about whether technology is available—it is about how fast we adopt it and integrate it into our agricultural ecosystem to add value to our economy,' he told the gathering. The minister stressed the importance of breaking mental and institutional silos, noting that many in the agriculture value chain are not just unaware of new technologies, but also unaware that they are unaware. Pointing to success stories like the Lavender Revolution in Jammu and Kashmir, where over 3,500 startups have emerged around lavender cultivation, Dr Singh emphasised how new-age farming — using satellite imaging, remote-controlled tractors, and order-based crop production — is reshaping the agricultural narrative. 'From lavender in Bhaderwah to off-season tulips grown for temple offerings, we have examples where science and strategy have combined to generate both income and innovation,' he noted. He also highlighted that biotech-driven advances, such as pest-resistant cotton developed through Department of Biotechnology initiatives and radiation-based food preservation techniques by the Department of Atomic Energy, are redefining how produce is grown, stored, and exported. 'Our mangoes now fly to the U.S. thanks to these technologies. And yet, many states have not come forward to fully exploit these tools,' he observed. Dr Singh proposed more frequent and informal cross-ministerial interactions to ensure real-time exchange of innovations. 'We should not wait for annual meetings alone. Let's create working groups and reach out when solutions can be shared, spontaneously and practically,' he urged.
NDTV
02-07-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Muscles, Microbes, And Microgravity: India's First Biology Experiments In Space
New Delhi: India has taken its first bold steps into space biology with a series of pioneering experiments aboard the International Space Station (ISS), as part of the Axiom-4 mission-referred to by some as Mission Akash Ganga. These experiments, conducted by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, mark a significant milestone in India's scientific and technological journey, exploring how biological systems behave in microgravity and radiation-rich environments. At the heart of this initiative is the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the leadership of Dr Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of DBT. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Dr Gokhale described the mission as a "floating lab in space" that will help India understand biological adaptability in ways never tested before. The experiments are designed to explore fundamental questions about human health, sustainability, and bio-manufacturing in space. Muscle Stem Cell Regeneration In Microgravity One of the flagship experiments led by DBT focuses on skeletal muscle stem cells. Conducted by the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem) in Bengaluru, this study investigates how microgravity affects the regeneration of muscle tissue. In space, the absence of gravitational force leads to muscle and bone mass reduction, a phenomenon well-documented in astronauts. Dr Gokhale explained that the experiment will compare muscle stem cell behaviour in space with those grown under Earth conditions. The goal is to understand whether the regenerative capacity of these cells is compromised in microgravity. This research could have far-reaching implications - not only for astronaut health during long-duration missions but also for treating age-related muscle degeneration and diseases like muscular dystrophy on Earth. The experiment explores the role of mitochondria - the powerhouse of the cell - in maintaining muscle health. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a known contributor to muscle loss. DBT scientists are testing two compounds: dihydrofolate and a thiol-containing amino acid, both known to enhance mitochondrial function. By supplementing these chemicals in space-grown muscle cells, researchers aim to determine whether mitochondrial regeneration can be achieved in microgravity. If successful, this could lead to new therapeutic strategies for muscle recovery in space and on Earth, particularly for conditions like sarcopenia and cachexia. Edible Microalgae Cultivation One DBT-led experiment involves growing edible microalgae in space. Conducted by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Delhi, this study examines how three species of microalgae adapt to space conditions. These algae are photosynthetic organisms that absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen - making them ideal candidates for life support systems in space. Dr Gokhale emphasised the dual benefits of this experiment: oxygen generation and food production. Microalgae could serve as bio-regenerators in future missions like Gaganyaan, replacing traditional chemical-based systems like zeolites. Their ability to grow continuously and be consumed makes them a sustainable solution for long-term space habitation. Cyanobacteria For Nutrient Recycling Another innovative experiment focuses on cyanobacteria, known for their ability to recycle nutrients. Human urine, rich in urea and nitrogen, presents a challenge in closed-loop space environments. This study investigates how cyanobacteria assimilate nitrogen from both organic (urea) and inorganic (nitrate) sources. The aim is to convert waste into usable resources-a concept Dr Gokhale described as "waste to wealth in space". Understanding how these bacteria function in microgravity could lead to efficient nutrient recycling systems for future space stations and planetary habitats. Seed Sprouting And Crop Growth India is also conducting experiments on seed sprouting, involving crops like fenugreek (methi) and moong or green gram. These seeds are being grown in space to observe changes in growth patterns and microbial interactions. Although the sprouted seeds will not be consumed by Mr Shukla, they will be returned to Earth for detailed analysis. This experiment is part of a broader effort to understand how Indian crop varieties respond to space conditions. It could pave the way for space farming and food security in extra-terrestrial environments. Eye Function And Screen Exposure While not directly under DBT, another experiment examines how prolonged exposure to screens affects eye function in space. Vision problems have been reported among astronauts, and this study aims to understand the physiological changes that occur in microgravity. It adds a critical dimension to astronaut health research. Water Bears (Tardigrades) Reproduction A particularly intriguing experiment involves tardigrades, microscopic organisms known for their resilience. Researchers are studying their reproductive cycle in space, specifically whether they can lay and hatch eggs under microgravity conditions. This could offer insights into how complex biological processes like reproduction are affected by space environments. Seeds For Genetic Analysis India is also sending seeds of various crop varieties to space, not for growth but for genetic analysis upon return. This experiment, though previously conducted by other nations, carries an Indian signature and aims to understand how space exposure affects genetic traits. Implications For Bio-Manufacturing And Policy These experiments align with India's Bio-E3 policy - Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment - approved by the Cabinet and championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr Gokhale highlighted that DBT's collaboration with ISRO is part of a long-term roadmap extending to 2040. The insights gained from these studies could revolutionise bio-manufacturing, especially in areas like carbon dioxide fixation and metabolic engineering. For example, algae used in space could be adapted to trap industrial emissions on Earth, offering sustainable solutions to climate challenges. A Vision For Viksit Bharat Dr Gokhale emphasised the transformative potential of cross-disciplinary science. From sports medicine to space biology, DBT is expanding its horizons to contribute to Viksit Bharat - a developed India. The department's pioneering role in biotechnology, from GM mustard to COVID vaccines, now extends to the final frontier, space. As India steps into the realm of space biology, these "baby steps" could soon become giant leaps, shaping the future of human health, sustainability, and innovation both in orbit and on Earth. India has big ambitions in space, from launching an Indian to space in 2027, having a space station by 2035 and landing an Indian on the moon by 2040. Group Captain Shukla has in fact laid the first firm footsteps for India's ambitious human space flight mission.
