While our bravehearts guard the countrys
borders, ever ready to battle any aggressor,
they need someone to fight mosquitoes. A
request from the armed forces to find a
safe and effective solution against mosquitoes,
leaches and other insects they encounter
in the inhospitable terrain they operate
in has been met by the Defence Research
and Development Organisation (DRDO).
After two decades of research, the organisation
finally found the answer to eliminate mosquitoes.
The scientists at Defence Research Development
Establishment (DRDE) in Gwalior developed
a new molecule, Diethyl Phenyl Acetamide
(DEPA), to ward off mosquitoes. The product
being used by the armed forces for some
years has now been transferred for commercial
production.
The DRDO has selected Jyothy Laboratories
Ltd to manufacture DEPA and formulations
based on it for commercial application,
under the supervision of the DRDE.
“The fact that this technology has
been effective for our armed forces for
years, adds to its credibility,” said
Mr M.P. Ramachandran, Chairman and Managing
Director, Jyothy Laboratories Ltd.
Research for the formula had begun in 1983.
Detailed studies were carried out on the
toxicology, safety and bio-efficacy of DEPA.
The formula has also been included in Indian
Pharmacopoeia.
Under the aegis of a programme spearheaded
by DRDO-FICCI-ATAC, it was decided to commercially
manufacture DEPA for civilians.
After discussions between members of DRDO
and industry body Federation of Indian Chambers
of Commerce and Industry, it was decided
that Jyothy Laboratories Ltd will be able
to carry out the commercial manufacture
of DEPA and bring out multi-insect repellent
in various formats.
Affordable price
A company official said that they will bring
out the products at an affordable price
and market them for the mass market. The
products will be for sale in India and abroad.
“Ever year many invaluable lives are
lost due to various insect transmitted diseases
such as malaria, dengue, chikungunia, yellow
fever, and elephantiasis. We are pleased
to have the opportunity provided to us by
the DRDO to make the product,” said
Mr Ramachandran.