- Momentum for the identification and prevention of infectious diseases and vaccine research
- A significant achievement for Chhattisgarh in research related to agriculture, animal husbandry, and human health
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai stated that the state-of-the-art Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory established at the Indira Gandhi Agricultural University (IGAU) campus in Raipur will not only give a new direction to high-level biosafety research in Chhattisgarh but also play a pivotal role in scientific innovation and the prevention of infectious diseases. This laboratory will facilitate the identification of infectious pathogens, scientific study of these agents, research on vaccines and treatments, and the development of advanced diagnostic techniques.
Chief Minister Shri Sai remarked that the expansion of scientific research, biotechnology, and modern laboratory facilities in Chhattisgarh—aligned with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India)—marks a significant step towards the state’s overall development. He noted that such a high-level scientific facility holds special importance for Chhattisgarh, given its economy’s reliance on agriculture and animal husbandry.
It is noteworthy that the Biosafety Level-3 laboratory—established under the newly constructed Subhash Chandra Bose Biotech Incubation Center by the Chhattisgarh Biotech Promotion Society at the IGAU campus—was inaugurated on September 28. Chief Minister Shri Sai congratulated and extended his best wishes to Dr. Girish Chandel, Vice-Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University and CEO of the Chhattisgarh Biotech Promotion Society, commending his efforts in achieving this significant milestone.
Chief Minister Shri Sai added that the BSL-3 laboratory would accelerate the study and surveillance of infectious diseases affecting plants, animals, and humans—particularly zoonotic diseases that transmit from animals to humans. This facility could prove useful in the early detection of serious infectious diseases, preparedness for disease outbreaks, and the strengthening of advanced diagnostic capabilities.
He stated that this state-of-the-art laboratory would provide a controlled environment adhering to high biosafety standards, thereby offering scientists and researchers new opportunities to study infectious pathogens and conduct research on vaccines and treatments. This will facilitate better coordination among agricultural biotechnology, animal health, and infectious disease research within the state.
The Chief Minister remarked that the laboratory would also play a pivotal role in strengthening the ‘One Health’ approach, which is based on the interconnections between human health, animal health, and the environment. This will enhance the prospects for disease surveillance and the development of scientific solutions in the agriculture and animal husbandry sectors.
Shri Sai noted that Indira Gandhi Agricultural University is already making significant contributions to agricultural research, biotechnology, and the development of modern laboratory facilities. The university’s phytosanitary laboratory plays a crucial role in the testing and research of agricultural samples, soil, water, crop residues, and other materials. The establishment of the BSL-3 laboratory will further bolster the university’s scientific research capabilities.
The Chief Minister stated that this facility would provide scientists, researchers, laboratory technicians, and relevant experts with opportunities for training and research aligned with high biosafety standards. This will encourage the expansion of modern research techniques alongside the development of skilled scientific human resources in the state.
Chief Minister Shri Sai expressed confidence that the BSL-3 laboratory would evolve into vital scientific infrastructure for infectious disease research, disease surveillance, biosafety, the study of animal and zoonotic diseases, and outbreak preparedness. This will not only give new momentum to high-level biosafety research in Chhattisgarh but also strengthen the research capabilities and national standing of Indira Gandhi Agricultural University.