Alka Rao

fermentationtechnologytechnologyappliedEstablished in 1984, the CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTech) is a prominent institution among the 37 national laboratories and 6 units under the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research. Initially operating from a startup laboratory, IMTech later shifted to a permanent 47-acre campus with cutting-edge facilities and residential areas. With a built-up area of 3.60 lakh sq. ft., IMTech focuses on key areas such as Molecular Biology, Microbial Genetics, Cell Biology, Immunology, Protein Science, Engineering, Fermentation Technology, and applied microbiology. The institute is recognized for its expertise in diverse fields. Under the CSIR Jigyasa program, initiated during the Platinum Jubilee year, IMTech actively engages with school students through research and laboratory-based learning. Collaborations with various organizations, including Kendriya Vidyalayas and the Atal Innovation Mission, highlight the program's success. The CSIR Jigyasa Virtual Lab (CJVL), an extension of the Jigyasa program, was launched in response to the pandemic. Developed in collaboration with IIT Bombay, this virtual platform offers free access to engaging scientific models, fostering inquisitiveness and critical thinking among students. Hence, to address the need for inclusive STEM education, IMTech's Indian Sign Language Enabled Virtual Laboratory focuses on creating ISL-translated content and vocabulary in STEM subjects. This initiative aims to make STEM education accessible to the deaf and hard of hearing in India. Hence, it contributes to a more inclusive scientific community.