Biological Warfare
India is a signatory to the BWC of 1972. India has a well-developed biotechnology infrastructure that includes numerous pharm-aceutical production facilities bio-containment laboratories (including BL-3) for working with lethal pathogens. It also has qualified scientists with expertise in infectious diseases. Some of India’s facilities are being used to support research and development for BW defense purposes. These facilities constitute a substantial potential capability for offensive purposes as well.
The Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE) at Gwalior is the primary establishment for studies in toxicology and biochemical pharmacology and development of antibodies against several bacterial and viral agents. Work is in progress to prepare responses to threats like Anthrax, Brucellosis, cholera and plague, viral threats like smallpox and viral haemorrhage fever and bio-toxic threats like botulism. Researchers have developed chemical/biological protective gear, including masks, suits, detectors and suitable drugs.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/india/bw/
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Updated Tuesday, August 03, 1999 11:54:00 AM
