Role of Nano Mission Programme during COVID-19 pandemic

Role of Nano Mission Programme during COVID-19 pandemic

Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science and Technology 

In News:

• As part of Nano Mission programme, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has approved support for upscaling an antiviral nano-coatings developed by a Professor of IIT, Delhi. 
• The nano-coatings will be used as appropriate material for producing anti-COVID-19 Triple Layer Medical masks and N-95 respirator in large quantities.

Key takeaways:

• The N9 blue nanosilver, which is a highly potent antimicrobial agent, will be used as  nano-material. 
• The N9 blue nanosilver will be further modified to form nanocomplexes with Zinc compounds to achieve a greater effect. 
• Further, these nanomaterials will be applied as coatings on facemasks and other PPEs so that the wearer is protected from accidental contamination from COVID-19 virus droplets. 
• The use of highly effective antimicrobial nanoparticles on PPEs, masks etc. will provide an extra layer of protection for frontline workers who are at greater risk of getting infected with COVID-19, such as the medical workers.

Important value additions:

Nano Mission

• The Government of India launched the Nano Mission in 2007 as an umbrella capacity-building programme.
• It is being implemented by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• The objectives of the mission are:
  • Basic research promotion
  • Infrastructure development
  • Nano applications and technology development
  • Human Resource development
  • International collaborations
• Today, India is amongst the top five nations in the world in terms of scientific publications in nanoscience and technology (3rd position).
• The Nano Mission has led to laying down a National Regulatory Framework Road-Map for Nanotechnology (NRFR-Nanotech).