Department of Biotechnology

Some informal moments with the Indian diaspora during the get together at the Indian Embassy in #Rome.

"International Centre for Theoretical Physics" is a leading global hub for advanced research, higher education and capacity-building in physics, mathematics and related fields. Its association with India extends across research collaboration, academic exchange, workshops and capacity-building activities involving several Indian institutions. India and the "International Centre for Theoretical Physics" (ICTP) have taken a significant step towards institutionalising their longstanding scientific partnership with the initiation of the ‘India-ICTP Co-operation Fund’, aimed at strengthening the engagement and mobility of Indian researchers with the international research centre, thus enhancing India's global reach, as envisaged in PM Sh @NarendraModi's vision for 2047. During the visit, a Letter of Intent (LoI) was signed between the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and ICTP in this regard. The LoI was exchanged from the Indian side by Senior Scientist Dr Praveenkumar Somasundaram, Head of the International Cooperation Division and National Supercomputing Mission in DST.

A beautiful example of how #CSIR in Ministry of Science & Technology, Govt of India, is contributing to women-led rural empowerment in #JammuAndKashmir! In #Doda, women associated with Self-Help Groups are transforming unused land into productive marigold farms, creating new avenues of income with support from CSIR-IIIM driven #FloricultureMission. From a pilot initiative involving just 5 women to a growing success story, the initiative has enabled beneficiaries like Rani to earn over ₹3 lakh from marigold sales. A testament to how scientific support, skill development and market access can empower women, strengthen rural livelihood and turn opportunity into prosperity.

Indian Express: #Delhi Confidential: Service Matters Read: indianexpress.com/article/de…

At CSIR- #IIIM #Jammu, reviewed the progress of India's first of it's kind, Cannabis Medicinal Research Project, with a particular focus on its potential medical applications. Cannabis is sought to be developed as export quality painkiller drugs, sending out a message that a substance infamous for drug addiction, could also bring relief to mankind. The pre-clinical trials are planned at Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) Mumbai. This is expected to pave the way for developing medicines for diabetic and other neuropathies, cancer, epilepsy, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). etc. The project has been undertaken in a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the participation of a French company, and is aimed exclusively at exploring the medicinal and life-science applications of cannabis. The project truly reflects PM Sh @NarendraModi's vision of a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society approach. It brings together the Government of India, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir and private-sector partners in a coordinated effort to harness medical innovation for societal benefit.

“India’s first Cannabis Medicine project is led by #Jammu’s #CSIR-IIIM, targeting potential treatment for chronic pain, such as pain related to diabetic neuropathy as well as other neuropathies, cancers, etc”.

On #WorldScienceDay, let's draw inspiration from Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the Father of the Indian space program #ISRO, who believed science education should be made compulsory for all citizens.

#CSIR-IIIM #Jammu

Chaired the Second General Body Meeting of the 'Earth System Sciences Council' (#ESSC). Emphasised the need to transform India's scientific achievements into accessible, compelling narratives for the general public. Called for greater citizen-centric science communication, so that scientific breakthroughs, technological innovations and research outcomes could be conveyed in simple language that enables ordinary citizens to appreciate their relevance and national significance. Time for greater coordination among institutions to realise the goals of Blue Economy laid down by PM Sh @narendramodi ji. Reviewed the progress of the Deep Ocean Mission, and major advances in India's human deep-sea exploration programme, including the development of MATSYA-6000, the country's 6,000-metre depth-rated human submersible. Indian aquanauts successfully completed dives to 4,025 metres and 5,002 metres during the Indo-French expedition aboard the submersible Nautile, marking a significant advancement in India's deep-sea exploration capabilities.

Addressed the Foundation Day programme of the 'Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council' #BRIC. Key Takeaways: "Time for deeper integration across scientific institutions and greater participation by industry in India’s biotechnology ecosystem. India has potential next biotechnology-driven industrial revolution. BRIC’s integrated model is accelerating scientific collaboration while preserving institutional autonomy. Need for stronger industry participation in India’s biotechnology ecosystem. PM Sh @narendramodi's Independence Day appeal to youth to explore new opportunities in biotechnology has generated enthusiasm across the sector. As a follow up, the department has initiated outreach programmes for school students and the public, as well as a dedicated mentorship programme to encourage girls to pursue science".