NAARRI Marks Golden Jubilee, Celebrating 50 Years Of Advancing Radiation Science In Healthcare, Industry And Research

Mumbai, April 2: The National Association of Radioisotopes and Radiation in Industry (NAARRI) marked its Golden Jubilee this year, celebrating five decades of advancing radiation applications across healthcare, agriculture, and industry.

Five decades of growth and collaboration

Founded in 1976 by Dr. V. K. Iya at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), NAARRI was established to bridge the gap between the Department of Atomic Energy and industry.

Over the years, it has grown into a prominent professional body with more than 1,500 members and strong collaborations across India and the Asia-Pacific region.

Contributions to healthcare and patient safety

In the healthcare sector, NAARRI has played a key role in promoting radiation technologies for sterilisation of medical products and enhancing awareness around cancer diagnosis and treatment. Its contributions have supported safer medical practices and improved patient care.

Advancing agriculture and food security

Beyond healthcare, the organisation has significantly contributed to agriculture and food security. Radiation-based techniques such as mutation breeding have enabled the development of climate-resilient and high-yield crop varieties.

Additionally, food irradiation has helped extend the shelf life of agricultural produce and provided a chemical-free method for pest control, reducing post-harvest losses.

NICSTAR 2026 highlights scientific innovations

These advancements were highlighted during NAARRI’s annual conference, NICSTAR 2026, held in Mumbai in the second week of March. Experts at the event emphasised the role of radiation technologies in improving soil health assessment and water-use efficiency, thereby supporting sustainable farming practices. NAARRI also reaffirmed its commitment to expanding farmer awareness and increasing adoption of these innovations nationwide.

Addressing misconceptions around radiation

A major focus of the organisation has been addressing public misconceptions about radiation. It has worked to clarify that controlled, low-dose radiation used in medical and industrial applications is safe and strictly regulated.

NAARRI has also dispelled myths such as irradiated food becoming radioactive and the conflation of peaceful nuclear applications with weapons technology.

Building public trust through outreach

Through continuous outreach, training, and academic engagement, NAARRI has strengthened public understanding and trust in radiation technologies. Its flagship conference, NICSTAR, continues to serve as a global platform for collaboration among scientists, regulators, and industry leaders.

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Leadership and future outlook

The organisation’s growth and evolution have been guided by its secretary, P. J. Chandy, whose leadership has played a significant role in shaping its vision and outreach.

As it completes 50 years, NAARRI stands as a testament to the responsible use of science — demonstrating how innovation and awareness can drive societal progress and overcome fear through knowledge.

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