India’s first Indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Plant

India’s first Indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Plant was launched by Dr Jitendra Singh today at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi.

The Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Rig, named “Sṛjanam,” was officially dedicated to the nation by Minister Jitendra Singh at a ceremony in the AIIMS auditorium.

This innovative, environmentally friendly technology, developed by CSIR-NIIST (National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), offers a significant advancement in the sustainable management of biomedical waste.

Speaking on the Commissioning, Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh called for a paradigm shift from ‘Waste to Wealth’ and emphasized the importance of sustainability and environmental concerns.

Dr Singh noted that India’s economy has transitioned from being part of the Fragile Five to a member of the First Five and is poised for continued growth. He highlighted the significance of the new biomedical waste treatment rig, which is set to revolutionize waste management in healthcare facilities.

The “Sṛjanam” rig can disinfect pathogenic biomedical waste such as blood, urine, sputum, and laboratory disposables, without the use of costly and energy-intensive incinerators.

Additionally, the rig imparts a pleasant fragrance to the otherwise foul-smelling toxic waste. With a daily capacity of 400 kg, the equipment is capable of handling 10 kg of degradable medical waste per day in the initial phase. Once validated, this technology will be ready for full-scale implementation after receiving approval from relevant authorities.

With the growing demand for better waste disposal solutions, the “Sṛjanam” rig offers a safer and more efficient approach, eliminating the risks associated with human exposure to harmful waste and minimizing the chances of spills and accidents.

The technology has been third-party validated for its antimicrobial action, and studies have shown that the treated material is safer than organic fertilizers like vermicompost.

Dr Jitendra Singh lauded CSIR-NIIST for its innovative and cost-effective solution to dispose of pathogenic biomedical waste in an eco-friendly manner.

He referenced the 2023 annual report of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which indicated that India generates 743 tonnes of biomedical waste daily, presenting a significant challenge in its safe and proper disposal. The new technology addresses this issue and presents an environmentally responsible alternative to traditional incineration methods.

Dr Jitendra Singh further explained that improper segregation, open dumping, open burning, and inadequate incineration of biomedical waste lead to severe health hazards, including the release of carcinogens and particulate matter. He emphasized the need for effective waste management to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance.

The Science and Technology Minister also emphasized the priorities of the government during its first 100 days, which include the approval of India’s first Bio E3 policy, the sanctioning of 1000 crores for Viability Gap funding for space startups, 2000 crores for Mission Mausam, and 50,000 crores for the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF).

Furthermore, he highlighted the recent Financial Budget, which proposes 20,000 crores for Bharat Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by urging for increased academic collaboration between institutions and proposed making postgraduate students co-guides in exchange programs, fostering synergy and shared learning.

He emphasized the government’s unwavering support for science, technology, and innovation under the leadership of PM Modi. He said “This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047, and with continued progress in innovation and sustainable technologies, India is set to become a global leader in environmental and healthcare solutions”.