CAR T-Cell Therapy India

CAR T-cell therapy has become one of the most important breakthroughs in modern cancer treatment. In November 2025, India achieved a historic milestone when Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched NexCAR19, the country’s first indigenous CAR T-cell therapy. This major advancement makes CAR T-cell therapy in India a crucial topic for SSC exams, especially in General Awareness, Science & Technology, and National Developments.

This therapy was developed by ImmunoACT, an IIT Bombay incubated startup, in collaboration with Tata Memorial Centre, with support from DBT and BIRAC. The launch puts India on the global map of advanced cancer immunotherapy and gene therapy in India.

What is CAR T-cell therapy?

CAR T-cell therapy is a highly advanced form of T-cell treatment in which a patient’s own white blood cells are genetically modified to fight cancer. These engineered cells, called CAR T-cells, can identify and destroy cancer cells more effectively than conventional treatments.

This therapy is used mainly for:

• Leukemia treatment

• Lymphoma treatment

It is especially useful for patients who do not respond to chemotherapy or radiation. With the launch of NexCAR19, CAR T-cell therapy in India has become more accessible and affordable.

How CAR T-Cell Therapy Works in India

SSC aspirants should clearly understand the process of CAR T-cell therapy.

The treatment involves four major steps:

1. Collection – T-cells are extracted from the patient's blood.

2. Engineering – These cells are modified to target cancer-specific antigens.

3. Multiplication – Millions of engineered CAR T-cells are multiplied in the lab.

4. Infusion – The modified cells are infused back into the patient’s body.

These steps make CAR T-cell therapy one of the most personalised forms of blood cancer therapy available today.

Significance of NexCAR19 for India

The launch of NexCAR19 marks a turning point in India's cancer treatment.

Important benefits:

• First Indigenous CAR T-Cell Therapy

• Reduced dependency on imported cancer treatments

• Major boost to Make in India in biotechnology

• Increased availability of CAR T-cell therapy in Indian hospitals

• Strong example of academic–industry collaboration

India now stands next to global leaders such as the US, Germany, and China in developing and delivering advanced cancer immunotherapy.

CAR T-Cell Therapy Cost: India vs Foreign Countries

Earlier, imported CAR T-cell therapy cost nearly ₹3–4 crore, making it unaffordable for most families.

With NexCAR19:

• The cost of CAR T-cell therapy cost India is now drastically lower

• Patients can receive affordable cancer therapy India within the country

• Travel and lodging expenses abroad are eliminated

This makes CAR T-cell therapy in India financially accessible for thousands of patients.

Best Hospitals for CAR T-Cell Therapy in India

Some of the best centres currently offering or preparing to offer CAR T-cell therapy include:

• Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai

• ImmunoACT-associated facilities at IIT Bombay

• Top regional cancer centers across the country

These hospitals are expected to lead the adoption of CAR T-cell treatment for leukaemia and lymphoma.

Why NexCAR19 is Important for SSC Exams

SSC aspirants must remember the following facts:

• Therapy Name: NexCAR19

• Type: CAR (Chimeric Antigen Receptor) T-Cell Therapy

• Developed By: ImmunoACT and IIT Bombay

• In Collaboration With: Tata Memorial Centre

• Supported By: DBT and BIRAC

• Launched By: Prime Minister Narendra Modi

• Year: 2025

• Used For: Leukemia and Lymphoma

The introduction of CAR T-cell therapy in India is a major scientific achievement and a likely exam topic.

Benefits of Indigenous CAR T-Cell Therapy for Indian Patients

NexCAR19 provides:

• Personalized treatment for blood cancers

• Faster access within India

• Lower treatment costs compared to the US

• Better outcomes in CAR T-cell therapy for relapsed leukemia in India

• Strengthened national research in gene therapy India

These advantages make CAR T-cell therapy a breakthrough in Indian medical science.

Final Thoughts

In a landmark achievement for Indian healthcare, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched NexCAR19, India’s first indigenous CAR T-cell therapy, designed to treat blood cancers like leukaemia and lymphoma.

Developed by ImmunoACT in collaboration with IIT Bombay and Tata Memorial Centre, with support from DBT and BIRAC, this therapy represents a major step in cancer immunotherapy and gene therapy in India. CAR T-cell therapy uses a patient’s own T-cells, which are modified to target and destroy cancer cells, offering personalised and highly effective treatment.

NexCAR19 makes advanced therapy more affordable, improves access within India, and reduces dependence on costly foreign treatments, positioning India as a global leader in CAR T-cell therapy.