Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh announced that nanomedicine will drive the next generation of precision medicine and personalized healthcare globally. Speaking at the World Congress on Nanomedicine 2026 at Vigyan Bhawan, he emphasized that India’s indigenous medical research carries immense global potential. Consequently, the government is building an integrated ecosystem spanning advanced research, startups, and regulatory frameworks.
NANOMEDICINE INITIATIVES & DBT FUNDING
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| Total Active R&D Projects | 210 Projects Supported by DBT |
| Direct Financial Allocation | ₹174 Crore |
| Key Research Breakthroughs | Oral Insulin Nanoparticles & Nanobots |
| Primary Regulatory Framework | DBT, ICMR, and CDSCO Joint Guidelines |
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Government Funds 210 Nanomedicine Projects Worth ₹174 Crore
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) currently supports 210 nanomedicine R&D projects with an investment of ₹174 crore. Specifically, these initiatives focus on targeted drug delivery, cancer nanomedicine, nano-diagnostics, regenerative medicine, and nanotoxicology.
Furthermore, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted breakthrough developments, including oral insulin nanoparticles and breast cancer nanobots. Additionally, early-stage biotechnology startups receive funding through BIRAC programs like BIG, PACE, SBIRI, and BIPP.
BIRAC STARTUP SUPPORT MECHANISMS
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| BIRAC Program Name | Primary Support Focus Area |
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| BIG | Biotechnology Ignition Grant for Early Concepts |
| PACE | Academic Research Conversion to Commercial Enterprise|
| SBIRI | Small Business Innovation Research Support |
| BIPP | Industry-Academia High-Risk Partnership Projects |
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Clinical Judgment Must Guide High-Tech Medical Tools
Despite rapid technological advances, Dr Jitendra Singh cautioned doctors against excessive dependence on automated diagnostic systems. Specifically, he stressed that artificial intelligence and nanotechnology must complement clinical judgment rather than replace foundational physical diagnosis.
Nobel Laureate Prof Roger D Kornberg praised India’s growing research capabilities at the event. Meanwhile, the joint regulatory guidelines from DBT, ICMR, and CDSCO ensure strict quality, safety, and efficacy standards for all emerging nanopharmaceuticals.
