Indigenous African Swine Fever (ASF) Vaccine Developed by ICAR Bolsters India's Biosecurity
Key Points
Scientists at the ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (ICAR-NIHSAD) have developed an indigenous vaccine for African Swine Fever (ASF), marking a significant advancement in veterinary science. This development is crucial for UPSC aspirants, especially for GS Paper 3 which covers biosecurity and economic resilience. Last Updated: 06-08-2026
Key Facts About African Swine Fever Vaccine
- African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting pigs, with mortality rates up to 100%.
- The vaccine developed by ICAR-NIHSAD uses an attenuated ASF virus with specific gene deletions.
- It employs the MA-104 cell line, facilitating large-scale and cost-effective production.
- ASF was first detected in India in 2020, primarily affecting the North-Eastern region.
- The economic impact in Assam and Mizoram was severe, with estimated losses of ₹276 crore and ₹982 crore respectively.
- The vaccine is administered as a 1 mL intramuscular injection with a booster dose after 14 days.
- Field validation was done in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
India's Biosecurity and Economic Resilience
The development of the ASF vaccine is a critical step in enhancing India's biosecurity and economic resilience. It aligns with India's strategic goals of becoming a global supplier of veterinary vaccines, reducing dependency on proprietary technologies, and improving livestock health. The vaccine's large-scale production capability positions India as a leader in veterinary science, contributing to national and global biosecurity.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Biosecurity, economic resilience, and veterinary science advancements.
- Prelims: Facts about ASF, its impact, and the vaccine's development.
- Mains: Analytical themes on biosecurity measures, economic impacts of livestock diseases, and indigenous technological advancements.
FAQ Section
- What is African Swine Fever?
ASF is a highly contagious viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs, caused by the African Swine Fever Virus, leading to high mortality rates. - Why is the ASF vaccine important?
The vaccine is crucial for reducing pig mortality, minimizing economic losses, and enhancing India's biosecurity and veterinary capabilities. - What are the key features of the ASF vaccine?
The vaccine uses an attenuated virus with gene deletions, employs the MA-104 cell line for large-scale production, and is administered as a 1 mL intramuscular injection.
Detailed Coverage
- ICAR-NIHSAD developed an attenuated vaccine for African Swine Fever.
- Vaccine uses ASF virus with specific gene deletions.
- MA-104 cell line makes production feasible and cost-effective.
- ASF is a highly contagious disease affecting pigs.
- Transmission occurs through direct contact and contaminated materials.
- First ASF outbreak reported in Kenya in 1921.
- Spread to Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean since 2007.
- India's first ASF detection was in 2020.
- Significant pig deaths and economic disruption occurred in affected regions.
- Vaccine expected to reduce mortality and farmers’ losses.
- Supports India’s role in providing affordable veterinary vaccines.
- Estimated losses from ASF outbreaks in India reached ₹276 crore.
- Vaccine suitable for pigs over eight weeks of age.
- Administered as a 1 mL intramuscular injection.
- Breakthrough signifies a new era in veterinary science.
- Reduces dependence on proprietary vaccine production.