India’s First Animal Stem Cell BioBank Inaugurated at NIAB, Hyderabad by Dr. Jitendra Singh

In a landmark step for Indian biotechnology and veterinary science, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the country’s first-of-its-kind State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell BioBank and Laboratory at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB), Hyderabad. The initiative is set to revolutionize animal health, regenerative medicine, and agricultural productivity, aligning with India’s growing focus on biotechnology-driven solutions.

World-Class Facility for Animal Biotechnology

The Animal Stem Cell BioBank, spread over 9,300 sq ft and built at a cost of ₹1.85 crore, is designed to focus on regenerative medicine and cellular therapies for livestock. It includes advanced infrastructure such as,

• Stem cell culture unit
• 3D bioprinter for tissue engineering
• Bacterial culture lab and cryostorage facilities
• Autoclave rooms with high biosafety standards
• Advanced air handling systems and uninterrupted power supply

This cutting-edge laboratory will support disease modelling, reproductive biotechnology, and tissue regeneration, with plans to expand under the National Biopharma Mission (NBM) of DBT–BIRAC for biobanking animal stem cells and their derivatives.

New Hostel and Quarters for Researchers

Alongside the BioBank inauguration, Dr. Singh also laid the foundation stone for a new hostel block and Type-IV residential quarters at NIAB. Approved by the Department of Biotechnology at a total cost of ₹19.98 crore, these facilities will cater to the needs of research scholars, faculty, and staff, fostering a thriving academic and innovation ecosystem.

Launch of Five Breakthrough Veterinary Technologies

To further strengthen India’s veterinary diagnostics and combat antimicrobial resistance, the Minister launched five innovative technologies,

• Rapid Detection of Brucellosis – Field-deployable DIVA-capable diagnostic kit for early detection of Brucella species.
• Mastitis Detection Technology – Affordable on-site test for subclinical and clinical mastitis in dairy cattle.
• Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing Device – Portable tool delivering results within two hours for responsible antibiotic use.
• Toxoplasmosis Detection Kit – Sensitive and specific test for Toxoplasma gondii infection in animals.
• Japanese Encephalitis Detection Kit – Indigenously developed rapid strip for large-scale surveillance in animals and humans.
• These innovations align with the ‘One Health’ approach, ensuring human, animal, and environmental health are addressed together.