India unveils first homegrown antibiotic, achieves breakthrough in gene therapy

Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 18: In a major stride toward pharmaceutical self-reliance, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that India has developed its first indigenously discovered antibiotic, Nafithromycin, effective against drug-resistant respiratory infections. This breakthrough holds particular promise for vulnerable groups such as cancer patients and those with poorly managed diabetes.

Speaking at a medical workshop in the capital, Dr. Singh highlighted the drug as the first molecule to be entirely conceptualised, developed, and clinically validated within India — a landmark moment for the country’s scientific ecosystem. He emphasised that this development marks a leap in India's efforts to reduce dependency on imported antibiotics and sets a preced