Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister, launched India’s first indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Plant at AIIMS New Delhi. The plant, named “Srjanam,” was dedicated to the nation in a ceremony held at the AIIMS auditorium. After the formal launch, Dr Singh, accompanied by Director General of CSIR Dr N Kalaisevi and AIIMS Director Dr M Srinivas, visited the site within the AIIMS premises to activate the machinery. Developed by CSIR-NIIST (National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology), this innovative technology marks a significant leap in sustainable biomedical waste management. The “Srjanam” rig is capable of disinfecting hazardous biomedical waste, including blood, urine, sputum, and laboratory disposables, without the need for expensive and energy-intensive incinerators. The rig also neutralises foul odours, imparting a pleasant fragrance to the treated waste. With an initial capacity to process 10 kg of waste per day, the rig will be capable of handling 400 kg of waste daily once fully operational and validated. This environmentally friendly solution offers a safer and more efficient method for waste disposal, reducing the risks of human exposure to harmful substances and preventing spills. The technology has been third-party validated for its antimicrobial effectiveness, and studies show that the treated waste is safer than organic fertilizers like vermicompost. Dr Singh praised CSIR-NIIST for developing this cost-effective, eco-friendly waste disposal solution. He highlighted the growing challenge of biomedical waste management, as India generates 743 tonnes of biomedical waste daily. The new technology provides a sustainable alternative to traditional incineration methods, addressing a critical environmental concern. The launch was attended by several distinguished dignitaries, including Dr V K Paul of NITI Aayog and Dr Rajiv Bahl of ICMR. News source: Daily Excelsior