Exploring our Molecular Lab at INDAM: Pioneering Biotechnology in Agriculture
Located at the forefront of biotechnological advancement, the Molecular Lab at INDAM believes in the power of innovation and excellence in agricultural research. Accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) and recognised by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) of the Government of India, our state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of conventional plant breeding through cutting-edge techniques.
Advancing Agriculture through Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS)
At the heart of INDAM's Biotechnology laboratory lies our commitment to applied research, particularly in enhancing the efficiency and precision of plant breeding via Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS). This approach has enabled significant breakthroughs in developing hybrids that exhibit enhanced tolerance to both biotic (such as viruses, bacteria, and fungal diseases) and abiotic stresses (including drought and salinity). Notably, many of INDAM's commercial F1 hybrids, including tomato, hot pepper, rice, and cotton varieties, boast multiple disease resistances—a testament to our lab's impactful research outcomes.
Collaborative Success in Public-Private Partnerships
Beyond in-house research, we actively participate in public-private partnership projects initiated by esteemed bodies like the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. Two standout projects—breeding for salt tolerance and developing double disease-resistant CMS lines—have not only been completed successfully but have also received acclaim. In fact, both projects were honoured with the Best Innovator Award by BIRAC in 2014 and 2021, underscoring INDAM's leadership in applied biotechnological research.
Comprehensive Testing and Certification Services
Our biotechnology laboratory at INDAM extends expertise beyond research to offer essential services in DNA fingerprinting (DAF), genetic purity (GP) assessments of seed lots, and disease resistance cataloguing for a wide array of vegetable and field crops. With NABL certification for DAF and GP available for 13 approved crops—ranging from tomatoes and peppers to cotton and maize—our lab ensures rigorous quality control and standards compliance in agricultural biotechnology.
Education and Capacity Building
Recognising the importance of nurturing future talent, INDAM's Molecular Lab provides valuable learning opportunities through short and long-term internships for undergraduate and postgraduate students in fields like molecular biology, recombinant DNA technology, and protein research. These initiatives not only contribute to academic growth but also foster practical skills development in emerging biotechnological practices.
Leading in Plant Tissue Culture and Production
Complementing our research and educational efforts, we operate a highly advanced commercial plant tissue culture laboratory. This facility excels in mass-producing a diverse range of ornamental plant varieties and engages in contract production of exotic species. Currently boasting a production capacity of 1.5 million plants, our lab plays a pivotal role in meeting agricultural demands and promoting biodiversity through innovative cultivation techniques.
With our commitment to excellence and dedication to advancing agricultural sustainability, we continue to shape the future of farming through science and innovation.