India has announced a significant advancement in its pharmaceutical sector with the introduction of Nafithromycin, the nation”s first indigenous antibiotic. This development, shared by Union Science and Technology Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, is a pivotal step towards achieving self-reliance in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
During the inauguration of a three-day medical workshop in New Delhi, Dr. Singh highlighted the effectiveness of Nafithromycin against resistant respiratory infections. This antibiotic is particularly advantageous for patients suffering from cancer and those with poorly managed diabetes.
In addition to this breakthrough, the Minister emphasized another notable scientific accomplishment: the successful completion of an indigenous clinical trial for gene therapy aimed at treating Hemophilia. Funded by the Department of Biotechnology, the trial was conducted at Christian Medical College in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. The results of the therapy showcased a correction rate of 60 to 70 percent, with no recorded bleeding episodes, and these findings have been published in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine.
Furthering India”s scientific capabilities, Dr. Singh revealed that the country has sequenced over 10,000 human genomes, with plans to increase this number to one million in the near future. This ambitious initiative underscores India”s commitment to advancing its genetic research and healthcare innovations.
