Nuclear Technology Applications in Medical and Agricultural Sectors

Why in news

Parliamentary question highlights the Department of Atomic Energy's (DAE) ongoing efforts in applying nuclear technology for peaceful purposes in the medical and agricultural fields, particularly focusing on radioisotope production and application in healthcare.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS3 · Science & Technology, Society, Economy · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is promoting peaceful applications of nuclear technology in medical and agricultural sectors.
2. Nuclear medicine and radioisotopes are used for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, especially in cancer care.
3. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) produces radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals.
4. Board of Radiation & Isotope Technology (BRIT) supplies these products to nuclear medicine centers across India.
5. DAE focuses on indigenous development of cost-effective radiopharmaceuticals to reduce reliance on imports.
6. Radioisotopes are produced using research reactors and cyclotrons.
7. Radioisotopes like Ruthenium-106, Caesium-137, and Strontium-90 are recovered from high-level liquid waste (HLLW).
8. DAE provides clinical patient services through the Radiation Medicine Centre (RMC), Mumbai, and Radiation Medicine Research Centre (RMRC), Kolkata.

Prelims pointers

• DAE is involved in peaceful applications of nuclear technology.
• BARC is responsible for producing radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals.
• BRIT facilitates the supply of these medical isotopes.
• Indigenous development of radiopharmaceuticals is a key objective.
• Radioisotopes are recovered from high-level liquid waste (HLLW).
• RMC, Mumbai and RMRC, Kolkata offer clinical patient services.

Mains practice question

Discuss the role and significance of nuclear technology in India's medical and agricultural sectors, highlighting the contributions of organizations like DAE, BARC, and BRIT.

Static linkage

The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is a nodal agency in India responsible for all activities related to atomic energy. Its mandate includes research and development in nuclear science and technology, and their peaceful applications in various sectors. BARC is a premier multidisciplinary research centre of DAE, and BRIT is an industrial unit that commercializes radioisotopes and related products. The use of radioisotopes in medicine is a significant application of nuclear technology, contributing to diagnostics and treatment.

Significance

The application of nuclear technology in medicine offers advanced diagnostic tools (like PET scans, SPECT imaging) and targeted therapies (like radiotherapy for cancer), improving patient outcomes. Indigenous production of radiopharmaceuticals enhances self-reliance, reduces costs, and ensures timely availability of critical medical supplies. In agriculture, nuclear techniques can be used for crop improvement (mutation breeding), pest control (Sterile Insect Technique), and soil/water management, contributing to food security and sustainable farming practices.