Science TechnologySaturday, 16 May 2026·The Hindu
India’s first indigenous CRISPR gene therapy BIRSA 101 for sickle cell disease showcased in New Delhi
A workshop on BIRSA 101 was held on 14 May 2026 at CSIR-IGIB, New Delhi, highlighting India’s first indigenous CRISPR-based therapy for sickle cell disease.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On 14 May 2026, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, along with CSIR and IGIB, held a workshop on BIRSA 101 at CSIR-IGIB, New Delhi, describing it as India’s first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease.
Key specifics
- BIRSA 101 is named after Bhagwan Birsa Munda and is aimed at treating Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).
- The Ministry of Tribal Affairs provided ₹3.75 crore to support the research and healthcare initiative.
- The CRISPR technology framework has been transferred to Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. for clinical trials and manufacturing development.
- The workshop was held during the first week of Janjatiya Garima Utsav 2026.
- The source also mentions GUaRDIAN, TKDL and IBCGA as related scientific programmes.
Exam lens
Question type: Science and technology, biotechnology, 14 May 2026, BIRSA 101, CRISPR, SCD, CSIR-IGIB. TNPSC may ask the significance of the therapy, the funding amount and the institute involved.