AUG 09: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated India’s first state-of-the-art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) in Hyderabad, marking a milestone in veterinary science and biotechnology.
The cutting-edge facility, built over 9,300 sq. ft at a cost of ₹1.85 crore, is equipped with advanced stem cell culture units, 3D bioprinting technology, bacterial culture labs, cryostorage systems, autoclave rooms, and uninterrupted power backup. It will focus on regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, reproductive biotechnology, and disease modelling for livestock. Supported by the National Biopharma Mission (DBT–BIRAC), the facility will also expand biobanking of animal stem cells and their derivatives.
Dr. Singh also laid the foundation stone for a new hostel block and Type-IV quarters at NIAB, sanctioned at a total cost of ₹19.98 crore to support research scholars, faculty, and staff.
During the event, the Minister launched five breakthrough veterinary diagnostic technologies to enhance livestock health:
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Rapid Detection of Brucellosis – Field-deployable, early-detection kit.
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Mastitis Detection Technology – Low-cost diagnostic for dairy cattle.
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Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing Device – Portable tool delivering results in two hours.
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Toxoplasmosis Detection Kit – Sensitive test for Toxoplasma gondii.
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Japanese Encephalitis Detection Kit – Rapid strip for large-scale surveillance in animals and humans.
He hailed PM Narendra Modi’s BioE3 Policy for enabling India to take early leadership in biotechnology, envisioning a future where the economy shifts from manufacturing to regenerative and genetic processes. He stressed that these innovations will boost agricultural GDP, improve livestock productivity, and pave the way for an “Evergreen Revolution” in animal husbandry.
Dr. Singh also interacted with farmers, urging them to adopt modern diagnostics and preventive measures to protect livestock health, thereby increasing farm incomes. Commending NIAB Director Dr. Taru Sharma, he noted the facility’s pioneering role in bridging the gap between human and animal stem cell research.
