India Launches Indigenous CRISPR Therapy 'BIRSA 101' In Decisive Step Against Sickle Cell Disease

In a major leap for genomic medicine and the government’s commitment to tribal health, India on Wednesday launched its first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy aimed at eradicating Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). The therapy, named “BIRSA 101” in honour of the legendary tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda, marks a significant technological milestone, positioning India among global leaders in advanced therapeutics.

The breakthrough was developed by the CSIR–Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) and was unveiled by Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh. Sickle Cell Disease, a severe genetic blood disorder, disproportionately affects India’s tribal population, particularly in the central and eastern regions, where the disease burden

is highest. The indigenous CRISPR platform, which the minister described as a “precise genetic surgery”, is designed not only to potentially cure SCD but also to transform treatment pathways for numerous other hereditary disorders.

A core focus of this development is affordability and accessibility. Global gene therapies of this nature often cost an exorbitant Rs 20–25 crore, placing them far beyond the reach of the common person. The Indian-developed technology, however, is projected to cost only a fraction of this price. To ensure its scalability and widespread reach, a formal technology transfer and collaboration agreement was exchanged between CSIR-IGIB and the Serum Institute of India Pvt Ltd (SIIPL). This public-private partnership will translate IGIB’s engineered enFnCas9 CRISPR platform into affordable therapies, ensuring that the innovation reaches the most underserved communities.

This launch is a decisive step towards fulfilling the government’s ambitious National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission, which aims to achieve a Sickle Cell–Free India by 2047. The mission, introduced in 2023, focuses on universal screening, prevention, and management of the disease across 278 affected tribal districts. By deploying this indigenously manufactured, cutting-edge gene therapy, India aims to provide a long-term, curative solution, cementing its capability as a leader in creating world-class medical technologies tailored for its most vulnerable populations.