The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), under the Ministry of Science & Technology, has achieved another milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, announced the development of an indigenous technology to produce paracetamol during the 40th Foundation Day of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre.
The newly developed technology, designed to manufacture paracetamol—a widely used pain reliever and fever reducer—will enable India to reduce its dependence on imported raw materials. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India). Karnataka-based Satya Deeptha Pharmaceuticals Ltd will employ this breakthrough technology for affordable domestic production.
Strengthening India’s Technological Base
Dr. Singh praised CSIR’s contributions over the decades, recalling its foundation as a pioneering institution aimed at advancing India’s scientific and industrial development. He emphasized that initiatives like these reflect India’s growing technological prowess and commitment to fostering innovation in collaboration with industry partners.
Marking the DSIR Foundation Day, the Minister highlighted the successful transfer of 16 additional technologies from CSIR to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These transfers included advancements from CSIR-CSIO Chennai in industrial instruments with IoT-enabled capabilities and from CSIR-CEERI Pilani in healthcare-related technologies. To date, 57 such transfers have been completed under the “100 Days, 100 Technologies” program led by Laghu Udyog Bharati, a national organization supporting MSMEs.
Innovation Beyond Pharmaceuticals
Dr Singh noted several recent milestones achieved by CSIR, including India’s first Indigenous antibiotic, Nafithromycin, designed to treat drug-resistant bacteria and advancements in gene therapy for haemophilia. He also highlighted progress in other areas such as hydrogen-powered buses, biofuels, and the Aroma Mission, which popularized lavender cultivation.
The Minister credited the leadership of Prime Minister Modi for fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship since 2014. Initiatives like “One Week One Theme” and “One Week One Lab” have amplified CSIR’s role in promoting technological development.
Call for Collaborative Growth
Dr. Singh urged the scientific community to explore non-government funding and resource sharing to accelerate innovation. He cited the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), which aims to channel 60% of its funding from the private sector, as a step in the right direction.
The event also featured remarks by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary of DSIR and DG CSIR, who highlighted the significance of the Guwahati Science Declaration for making India a global economic hub by 2047. Prof. A.K. Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, emphasized the need for India to transition from a service-based economy to a product-driven one, leveraging indigenous designs.
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With the indigenously developed paracetamol technology, CSIR has reinforced India’s position as a global leader in innovation while contributing to its self-reliance goals. The event concluded with a collective commitment to advancing scientific and industrial research to drive national progress.