New Delhi: India on Wednesday launched its first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease, marking a major milestone for Atmanirbhar Bharat and offering new hope to communities, particularly tribal populations, disproportionately affected by the condition.

The world-class, low-cost gene-editing therapy, named “BIRSA 101” in honour of tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda, was launched by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh.

Describing the technology as a form of “precise genetic surgery”, the minister said it holds the potential not only to cure sickle cell disease but also to transform treatment options for a range of hereditary disorders.

Sickle cell disease is a chronic single-gene condition that leads to

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