On January 5, 2025, during the 40th DSIR Foundation Day celebrations, Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research's (CSIR) indigenous technology for the production of paracetamol. This initiative is part of India's broader strategy to achieve self-reliance in manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision. Karnataka's Satya Deeptha Pharmaceuticals has been designated to produce affordable paracetamol using this new technology. [e0176fbc]
The announcement comes at a time when the Indian pharmaceutical industry is actively seeking to enhance its capabilities and innovation. The recent call for establishing a Bharat Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman aims to set global standards in pharmaceuticals, which is crucial for ensuring that Indian products meet international benchmarks. This initiative is expected to complement the efforts of CSIR in promoting indigenous production and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector. [050ba9fc]
Dr. Singh also highlighted the significance of technology transfers, noting that 16 technology transfers have been completed under the Laghu Udyog Bharati's '100 days 100 technology' program, bringing the total to 57. CSIR's contributions to healthcare innovation include the development of Nafithromycin, an antibiotic, and advancements in gene therapy for Hemophilia. The emphasis on collaboration between government and non-government sectors is seen as vital for fostering a product-based economy in India. [e0176fbc]