Science and Technology Minister, Dr. Jitendra Singh today launched country’s first indigenous CRISPR based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease, which primarily affects country’s tribal population. The therapy, named BIRSA 101 is dedicated to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose 150th anniversary was observed on the 15th of this month. Addressing the gathering, the Minister said, the country has formally begun its decisive journey towards becoming a Sickle Cell Disease-free nation, marking a historic turning point in the country’s public health and genomic medicine landscape.
Dr. Singh emphasized that the breakthrough has demonstrated country’s capability to produce pathbreaking therapies at a fraction of global costs, potentially replacing treatments priced at 20-25 crore rupees overseas. He underlined that this innovation carries deep national significance, especially for tribal communities in central and eastern India, where the disease burden is highest.
He urged scientific institutions to communicate breakthroughs in simple language through infographics and social media, ensuring the public fully understands the significance of these advancements. The Minister also lauded the growing synergy between government scientific institutions and Indian industry, especially the Serum Institute of India. Dr Singh said that such partnerships have already delivered globally recognised achievements- including COVID-19, HPV and other critical vaccines, and will now accelerate country’s leadership in gene therapy.
