India to Set Up Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation

JNCASR–CrisprBits Partnership to Boost Gene-Editing Research in India

India has taken a major step towards strengthening its biotechnology and gene-editing ecosystem with the signing of a Letter of Intent (LoI) to establish the Centre of Excellence for CRISPR Innovation and Translation (CoE-CIT) . The initiative was announced on December 22, 2025 , and aims to accelerate the translation of cutting-edge CRISPR research into affordable clinical and healthcare solutions.

Public–Private Partnership for Translational Research

The proposed Centre of Excellence will be set up through a partnership between the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru , and CrisprBits Private Limited , a Delhi-based biotechnology company. This public–private collaboration seeks to combine JNCASR’s strength in fundamental biomedical research with CrisprBits’ expertise in applied gene-editing technologies.

Objectives of CoE-CIT

The central goal of CoE-CIT is to bridge the long-standing gap between laboratory discoveries and real-world medical applications—often referred to as the “bench-to-bedside” challenge. The centre will focus on developing CRISPR-based diagnostics, therapeutic tools, and healthcare solutions that are scalable and cost-effective. It is also envisioned as a national model for academia–industry collaboration in advanced life sciences.

Importance of CRISPR Technology

CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is a powerful gene-editing technology that allows precise modification of DNA. It holds immense potential in treating genetic disorders, developing diagnostics, and advancing personalised medicine. India has identified CRISPR as a strategic technology for boosting innovation and reducing dependence on imported biomedical solutions.

Expected Impact

The centre is expected to speed up innovation in healthcare, encourage translational research, and deliver affordable gene-based solutions to patients. It also aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in biotechnology and healthcare innovation.

What to Note for Exams?

• CoE-CIT focuses on CRISPR Innovation and Translation

• LoI signed on December 22, 2025

• Partners: JNCASR Bengaluru and CrisprBits Pvt. Ltd.

• JNCASR is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology

• Emphasis on bench-to-bedside research