Why in news ? Recently , The Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has launched India’s first indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi. The plant, named “Sṛjanam”, aims to revolutionize biomedical waste management by offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution to treat waste without relying on energy-intensive incinerators. This development marks a significant milestone in India’s efforts to manage biomedical waste sustainably and align with the country’s environmental and healthcare priorities.
Key Points:
1. Introduction of “Sṛjanam” Rig:
The Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, named “Sṛjanam”, was inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh at AIIMS New Delhi. This innovative technology, developed by CSIR-NIIST (National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), has a daily capacity of 400 kg and is designed to disinfect pathogenic biomedical waste such as blood, urine, sputum, and laboratory disposables.
2. Features and Benefits of “Sṛjanam” Rig:
- Environmentally friendly: Unlike traditional incinerators, “Sṛjanam” does not require costly and energy-intensive incineration methods.
- Pleasant fragrance: It imparts a pleasant fragrance to the treated waste, which is otherwise foul-smelling.
- Safety and efficiency: The rig minimizes human exposure to harmful waste and reduces risks such as spills and accidents.
- Third-party validation: The technology has been validated for its antimicrobial action, with studies indicating that treated waste is safer than organic fertilizers like vermicompost.
3. Significance of Waste Management in Healthcare:
India generates 743 tonnes of biomedical waste daily (according to the Central Pollution Control Board 2023 report), presenting a major challenge for safe disposal. Sṛjanam addresses this by offering a safer, eco-friendly alternative to conventional incineration methods. Improper waste management can lead to health hazards, including the release of carcinogens and particulate matter. This new technology aims to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance.
4. Minister’s Remarks on the Launch:
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the “Waste to Wealth” paradigm, focusing on sustainability and environmental concerns. He acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in driving India’s progress in science, technology, and green initiatives. He also highlighted the government’s investment in innovation, including India’s first indigenous DNA vaccine and breakthroughs in space technology.
5. Technological Milestones and Government Priorities:
Dr. Singh mentioned several technological milestones achieved by India, such as the development of India’s first HPV vaccine, Nafithromycin (antibiotic), and gene therapy for hemophilia. Additionally, he referred to the government’s plans in the first 100 days to approve the Bio E3 policy, sanction funds for space startups, and research foundations.
Key Facts/Terms:
- Sṛjanam: Indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig developed by CSIR-NIIST.
- Biomedical Waste: Daily generation of 743 tonnes in India.
- CSIR-NIIST: National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, responsible for developing the rig.
- Eco-friendly technology: Focuses on sustainability and eliminates the need for incinerators.
- Antimicrobial Action: The treated biomedical waste is validated to be safer than organic fertilizers.
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB): Reports on biomedical waste generation in India.
- Sustainable Waste Management: Addresses health hazards and the spread of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
Conclusion:
The launch of “Sṛjanam” marks a significant step towards sustainable biomedical waste management in India. By shifting from incineration to eco-friendly alternatives, the technology aligns with the government’s goal of creating a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, positioning India as a leader in environmental and healthcare solutions.