OCT 15: At the Golden Jubilee celebration of CSIR–NIIST Thiruvananthapuram, Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the institute’s pivotal role in transforming India into an innovation-driven economy. Recalling that NIIST was established 50 years ago to harness the rich natural resources of the southern peninsula for scientific advancement, he highlighted its contributions in sustainability, entrepreneurship, and research excellence.
Dr. Singh inaugurated the new Golden Jubilee Building and the CSIR–NIIST Innovation Centre, designed to translate research ideas into startups and viable products. “From agriculture to artificial intelligence, the Innovation Centre will nurture entrepreneurs and fuel an innovation-led economy,” he said, noting that ten startups have already completed incubation.
The Minister also announced the proposed Center for Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship at Bio 360 Life Sciences Park in Kerala, aimed at accelerating translational research in biotechnology and life sciences. He cited key national innovations by NIIST, including a biomedical waste conversion rig at AIIMS Delhi, “designer rice” for diabetic populations, indigenous Vaccine Vial Monitors (VVMs), and sustainable packaging alternatives.
Dr. Singh underscored the importance of integrating interdisciplinary and inter-governmental approaches to strengthen synergy between research labs, government, and industry. He highlighted the institute’s achievements in patents, technology transfers, and industry collaborations, linking science to India’s national growth agenda.
Looking ahead, CSIR–NIIST is establishing Centres of Excellence in Ayurveda and Sustainable Polymers, supporting India’s green and self-reliant research future. Dr. Singh described the Innovation Centre as embodying the vision of “Concept to Commercialization,” ensuring research delivers tangible benefits to society and industry. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enabling private sector participation, sustainable technologies, and innovation-led economic resilience, positioning CSIR–NIIST as a cornerstone of India’s global leadership in science.
