India Opens First Animal Stem Cell BioBank

India has taken a historic leap in veterinary science. On August 9, 2025, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the nation’s first State-of-the-Art Animal Stem Cell BioBank and Laboratory at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB), Hyderabad. The facility promises to transform animal health research, boost livestock productivity, and advance biotechnology innovation.

A First-of-Its-Kind Veterinary Research Facility

The Animal Stem Cell BioBank spans 9,300 sq ft and is built at a cost of ₹1.85 crore. It is equipped with advanced infrastructure, including a stem cell culture unit, 3D bioprinter, bacterial culture lab, cryostorage, autoclave rooms, and sophisticated air handling systems. The uninterrupted power backup ensures seamless research operations.

According to the Press Information Bureau, the laboratory will focus on regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, disease modelling, and reproductive biotechnology for livestock. With support from the National Biopharma Mission (NBM) under DBT–BIRAC, the facility will also store animal stem cells and their derivatives for future use.

Boosting Research and Innovation

Alongside the biobank launch, Dr. Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for a new hostel block and Type-IV quarters worth ₹19.98 crore. These facilities will cater to the needs of research scholars, faculty, and staff, creating a vibrant academic and innovation ecosystem at NIAB.

The Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s futuristic vision and the Biotechnology BioE3 policy for enabling India to be an early initiator in this advanced field. “We are preparing for the next industrial revolution, driven by biotechnology,” Dr. Singh said.

Five Breakthrough Veterinary Technologies Released

In a landmark move, the Minister also launched five cutting-edge veterinary diagnostic tools to combat antimicrobial resistance and strengthen animal health management. These include:

• Rapid Detection of Brucellosis: A field-deployable, DIVA-capable diagnostic kit for early detection of Brucella species.
• Mastitis Detection Technology: An affordable, on-site assay for both subclinical and clinical mastitis in dairy cattle.
• Antimicrobial Sensitivity Testing Device: A portable tool delivering results within two hours to encourage responsible antibiotic use.
• Toxoplasmosis Detection Kit: A precise test for detecting Toxoplasma gondii infection in animals.
• Japanese Encephalitis Detection Kit: An indigenously developed rapid strip for mass surveillance in animals and humans.

These technologies align with the global ‘One Health’ approach, linking animal health to human well-being.

Economic and Agricultural Impact

Dr. Singh highlighted that innovations in veterinary health will significantly boost agriculture-linked GDP and help achieve an “Evergreen Revolution” in animal husbandry. With agriculture contributing 18% to India’s GDP and 60% of the workforce depending on it, advanced veterinary tools can enhance productivity and profitability.

He pointed out that “one rupee spent on agricultural research yields ₹13 in return,” and linking industry partners from the start ensures these innovations reach farmers quickly.

Farmer Awareness and Outreach

On the sidelines of the event, Dr. Singh interacted with farmers. He stressed the importance of disease awareness, early detection, and preventive care for livestock. Many farmers remain unaware of conditions like brucellosis, mastitis, and toxoplasmosis, which affect animal health and farm incomes.

The Minister urged livestock owners to adopt modern diagnostic tools and disease prevention practices. “Early detection saves lives and boosts income,” he noted, reaffirming PM Modi’s commitment to farmer welfare and rural prosperity.

India’s Biotechnology Future

Dr. Singh praised NIAB Director Dr. Taru Sharma for her leadership in establishing India’s first animal stem cell biobank. He pointed out that while India had facilities for human stem cells, animal research lacked similar infrastructure until now.

Looking ahead, he emphasized the potential of biotechnology in regenerative and genetic processes, space medicine, and integrated plant-animal-human research under the Department of Biotechnology.

With the recently announced ₹1 lakh crore RDI fund under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), India aims to strengthen private sector R&D and climb from the world’s fourth-largest economy to the top ranks.

Fact-Based Key Points

• India’s first Animal Stem Cell BioBank inaugurated at NIAB Hyderabad on August 9, 2025.
• Facility spans 9,300 sq ft, cost ₹1.85 crore, equipped for regenerative and reproductive biotech research.
• Five veterinary diagnostic technologies launched to fight diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
• New ₹19.98 crore hostel and quarters to boost research infrastructure.
• Part of PM Modi’s Biotechnology BioE3 policy and ‘One Health’ approach.

Conclusion

The inauguration of the Animal Stem Cell BioBank marks a milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global leader in biotechnology. By combining advanced research facilities, innovative diagnostic tools, and farmer outreach, India is paving the way for healthier livestock, stronger rural economies, and a more sustainable agricultural future.

This step also showcases how science and policy can work together to create lasting change. As Dr. Singh said, “The best of Indian biotechnology is yet to come.”