Published: 19 November 2025PIBScience & Technology
BIRSA 101: India Launches First Indigenous CRISPR Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease
The Minister of Science and Technology launched 'BIRSA 101', India's first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease. Named after Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary, the therapy was developed by CSIR-IGIB (Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology) and transferred to the Serum Institute of India.
The CRISPR-Cas9 technology works like molecular scissors to cut DNA at specific target sites, correcting the HBB gene mutation that causes sickle cell disease. Global gene therapies cost ₹20-25 crore, but BIRSA 101 aims to be affordable. This supports the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (2023-2047). Rajasthan's tribal populations in southern districts like Banswara and Dungarpur have significant sickle cell prevalence.
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CoverageNationalSubjectScience & TechnologyExamBasic Computer Instructor · CET Graduation · CET Senior Secondary · EO/RO · LDC · Mahila Supervisor · Patwar · PTI · RAS · REET · RPSC SI · School Lecturer · Senior Computer Instructor · Senior Teacher · UPSC · Vanpal · BothSourcePIB
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Linked questionMedium
BIRSA 101, the CRISPR gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease, was developed by which institution?
Explanation · Correct answer BBIRSA 101 is India's first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease. PIB records that the breakthrough was developed at CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology and that CSIR-IGIB and Serum Institute signed a technology-transfer agreement to support affordable deployment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the key development regarding BIRSA 101?
'BIRSA 101' was launched as India's first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease, named after Birsa Munda on his 150th birth anniversary.
What cost comparison was made for BIRSA 101?
Global gene therapies for this condition cost about ₹20-25 crore; BIRSA 101 aims to be far more affordable. It was developed by CSIR-IGIB (Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology) and transferred to Serum Institute of India.
What is the broader significance or impact of this development for India?
CRISPR-Cas9 works as molecular scissors to cut DNA at specific sites, correcting the HBB gene mutation causing sickle cell disease.
What additional facts are known about BIRSA 101?
It supports the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (2023-2047) and is relevant because tribal populations have notable prevalence.
Why is this topic important for RAS/UPSC competitive examinations?
It supports the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (2023-2047); Rajasthan's tribal populations in Banswara and Dungarpur have significant prevalence.
