Published: 18 November 2025PIBScience & Technology
India Launches BIRSA 101: First Indigenous CRISPR Gene Therapy for Sickle Cell Disease
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched BIRSA 101, India's first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), on November 19, 2025. Developed by CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) in partnership with the Serum Institute of India, it is named after tribal leader Birsa Munda.
BIRSA 101 uses CRISPR technology to correct the mutation causing sickle-shaped red blood cells, offering a potential one-time lifelong cure. While global gene therapies for SCD cost ₹20-25 crore, BIRSA 101 aims to cost around ₹50 lakh. Clinical trials with participants from MP, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand are set to begin in 2026. SCD disproportionately affects tribal populations including Gond, Munda, Bhil, and Santal communities.
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Q: How does India's BIRSA 101 — the first indigenous CRISPR gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease launched in November 2025 — advance tribal health equity and affordable biotechnology?
Answer (50 words):
BIRSA 101, launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh on November 19, 2025, is India's first indigenous CRISPR gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease. Co-developed by CSIR-IGIB and Serum Institute, it targets ₹50 lakh pricing against global costs of ₹20-25 crore, enabling affordable one-time cures for Gond, Munda, Bhil, and Santal communities.
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Linked questionMedium
Which Rajasthan districts have significant sickle cell disease prevalence in tribal populations?
Explanation · Correct answer BRajasthan's tribal populations in Banswara and Dungarpur have significant sickle cell prevalence.
