Parliamentary panel calls for CSIR-IGIB–Tata Memorial collaboration to tackle rising cancer burden in North-East India

Under the rare disease diagnostic programme, the committee commended IGIB for developing India’s first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease. It further recommended genomic studies of Indian tribal populations to investigate haemoglobinopathies, other inherited and endemic disorders, and cancer. Based on these findings, IGIB was urged to develop targeted diagnostic tools, genetic counselling services, and preventive and therapeutic strategies.However, the committee also raised concerns over a lack of transparency and accountability in IGIB’s technology transfer processes, despite the institute being publicly funded. It recommended that IGIB publish relevant details—while respecting confidentiality agreements—on transferred technologies, participating firms and associated fees on its website and in its annual reports.Finally, noting the persistent shortage of funds faced by research laboratories and institutions, the panel suggested diversifying revenue streams. Recommendations included commercialising intellectual property, expanding industry partnerships, increasing externally funded research, enhancing corporate social responsibility outreach, and strengthening technology transfer mechanisms by offering technologies at competitive prices.



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