CSIR–NIIST launches new research and innovation facilities; marks 50 years of establishment

The CSIR–National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR–NIIST) completed 50 years of establishment. The institute marked the occasion with new research facilities and initiatives to strengthen India’s innovation and startup ecosystem.

Union Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh inaugurated the CSIR–NIIST Innovation Centre and the Golden Jubilee Building during the event. The Innovation Centre is designed to convert research ideas into startups and commercial applications. The first batch of ten startups has completed incubation under this programme.

According to the official press release, the Minister also announced two new Centres of Excellence — one for Ayurveda Research and another for Performance Chemicals and Sustainable Polymers — to strengthen research in traditional medicine and green technologies.

The minister also informed that land has been allotted at Thonnakkal in Kerala’s Bio 360 Life Sciences Park for a proposed Centre for Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship, which will promote translational research in biotechnology and life sciences.

“This facility will accelerate translational research in biotechnology and life sciences, turning lab breakthroughs into life-changing realities,” the minister said.

Notable research innovations

Highlighting key research contributions of CSIR–NIIST, the minister cited innovations such as a biomedical waste conversion system installed at AIIMS Delhi, the development of a “designer rice” variety suitable for diabetic populations, indigenous vaccine vial monitors to reduce import dependence, and research on sustainable packaging alternatives to plastics.

“These initiatives reflect science with social impact,” Singh said, adding that such technologies directly support national missions including Swachh Bharat, Ayushman Bharat, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

The Minister noted that over the past two years, CSIR–NIIST’s institutional budget has grown by 1.5 times to more than Rs 120 crore, with half directed to R and D. The institute has transferred 28 technologies, signed 65 industry agreements, and secured record levels of external funding.

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Government push for collaboration

Calling for closer cooperation among government departments, research institutions, and the private sector, Singh said the “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-nation” approach outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is central to India’s scientific growth.

He added that ongoing collaborations between CSIR and the Department of Biotechnology, along with the decision to open up space and nuclear sectors to private players, demonstrate this integrated model.

“As the Golden Jubilee celebrations concluded, Dr. Jitendra Singh congratulated the CSIR–NIIST community, calling the institute “a powerhouse of purposeful excellence” and expressing confidence that it will continue to contribute to India’s emergence as a global leader in science and innovation,” the official press release said.