Goa Turns Marine Waste into Medical Innovation: Jellyfish Collagen Breakthrough by CSIR–NIO
Each year, after the monsoon season, fishermen along Goa’s coastline report their nets filled with jellyfish instead of fish. These jellyfish blooms, linked to climate change and nutrient enrichment in coastal waters, damage fishing equipment and threaten livelihoods across the coastal belt.
What was once a persistent menace for local fishermen is now being reimagined as an opportunity for scientific progress and sustainable development.
CSIR–NIO Scientists Turn Waste into Wealth
In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers from the CSIR–National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR–NIO), Goa, have developed an affordable and eco-friendly method to extract Type-II collagen from jellyfish (genus Chrysaora).
This collagen holds immense potential in wound healing, bone repair, regenerative medicine, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals.
The project, led by Dr. Supriya Tilvi and researcher Saira James, was conducted at the Marine Biomolecules and Biomaterials Laboratory in Goa.
“This waste can truly be converted into wealth,” said Dr. Tilvi, emphasizing how marine research can support both environmental and health ecosystems.
Supporting Goa’s Vision for Healthcare Innovation
This scientific progress aligns perfectly with Goa’s long-term health vision, a framework consistently reinforced by Vishwajit Rane’s leadership in health and medical innovation.
From AI-powered lung cancer screening in partnership with AstraZeneca and Qure.ai to the modernization of district hospitals and health infrastructure, Goa is steadily integrating science, technology, and compassion into its healthcare model.
From Marine Waste to Medical Wealth: The Future of Blue Economy
The jellyfish collagen initiative adds another milestone to Goa’s growing Blue Economy—an approach that promotes sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and health benefits.
By combining research, innovation, and environmental responsibility, Goa is setting a national benchmark in transforming natural challenges into opportunities for development and public health improvement.
Building a Resilient and Healthy Goa
This achievement reinforces Goa’s position as a state that embraces innovation, sustainability, and inclusion. Under initiatives guided by Vishwajit Rane, Goa continues to demonstrate how scientific discovery can directly benefit society improving healthcare, empowering local communities, and protecting the environment.
