Sat Jan 31 15:17:48 UTC 2026: ### India Boosts Domestic and Global Supply of Oxygen-18 for Medical Use

The Story:
On Saturday, January 31, 2026, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, Ajit Kumar Mohanty, laid the foundation stone for expanding Oxygen-18 (O-18) production facilities at the Heavy Water Plant (HWP) in Manuguru, Bhadradri Kothagudem district. This expansion aims to cater to both domestic and global demand for O-18 enriched water, a crucial component in Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans used for cancer detection. The HWP, already operating India’s first O-18 enriched water facility, is poised to become a significant player in the international market.

Key Points:

  • The foundation stone was laid for augmentation of Oxygen-18 (O-18) facilities at Heavy Water Plant (HWP), Manuguru.
  • Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the DAE and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, officiated the ceremony.
  • India’s first O-18 enriched water production facility is already operational at HWP, Manuguru.
  • O-18 is essential for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanning, used in cancer detection.
  • The HWP has diversified into producing Boron-10, Boron-11 enriched powder, Boron Carbide pallets, and O-18 enriched water.
  • The produced O-18 enriched water has been certified and accepted for use in medical cyclotrons.
  • India will now be able to meet both its own needs and contribute to the global supply of O-18 enriched water.

Key Takeaways:

  • India is strategically investing in nuclear technology for medical applications.
  • The Heavy Water Plant in Manuguru is diversifying its production to include materials vital for healthcare.
  • This initiative positions India as a significant global supplier of Oxygen-18, essential for cancer detection.
  • The project highlights India’s commitment to both self-reliance (meeting in-house requirements) and international collaboration in the healthcare sector.

Impact Analysis:

This event has several significant long-term implications:

  • Healthcare Advancement: Increased availability of O-18 will likely improve access to PET scans for cancer diagnosis in India, leading to earlier detection and potentially better treatment outcomes.
  • Economic Growth: Exporting O-18 enriched water could generate revenue for India and strengthen its position in the global market for medical isotopes.
  • Technological Expertise: This initiative showcases India’s growing expertise in nuclear technology and its applications beyond energy production.
  • Global Health Security: By becoming a reliable supplier of O-18, India contributes to global health security by ensuring a stable supply of a critical component for cancer diagnosis.

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