The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) announced two major scientific advancements with significant applications in healthcare and rare-earth research.
DAE, in collaboration with Cologenesis Pvt. Ltd., launched ColoNoX, India’s first nitric-oxide-releasing wound dressing for diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and clinically validated through Phase II and III trials, the dressing has now received DCGI approval for commercial manufacturing.
DAE Secretary and Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) Chairman Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty said the innovation will provide affordable and effective treatment options for diabetic patients and reflects the department’s commitment to applying nuclear science for societal benefit.
In another key initiative, DAE released an indigenously developed Certified Reference Material (CRM) titled Ferrocarbonatite (FC) – BARC B140, to support exploration, extraction and process control in Rare Earth Elements (REEs). The CRM, created jointly by BARC’s NCCCM (National Centre for Compositional Characterisation of Materials) and the Atomic Minerals Directorate (AMD), Hyderabad, provides certified values for thirteen rare-earth elements and six major elements.
Dr. Mohanty said the material will strengthen India’s analytical capability in strategic sectors and support the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Officials noted that this is the first CRM of its kind developed in India and only the fourth in the world.
