Kerala
has taken a unique, science-based step by making a microorganism a part of its
state identity for the first time
¨
Kerala has taken a unique, science-based step by making a microorganism
a part of its state identity for the first time.
¨
This initiative underscores the role of microorganisms in daily life,
from human health to agriculture and environmental sustainability.
¨
This decision is the first of its kind in India, reflecting Kerala's
commitment to knowledge and research.
¨
Kerala has officially declared Bacillus subtilis as its State Microbe.
Kerala is the first state in India to do so.
What is
Bacillus subtilis
¨
Bacillus subtilis is a beneficial probiotic bacterium naturally found in
soil, fermented foods, and the human gut.
¨
It is considered helpful in improving gut health, boosting immunity,
enhancing soil fertility, and controlling plant diseases.
¨
Due to its high tolerance and spore-forming ability, it is widely used
in the pharmaceutical industry, food processing, and sustainable agriculture.
¨
Recognizing it as the state microbe highlights the silent but
significant contribution of microorganisms to human well-being and ecological
balance.
Official
Announcement and Historic Initiative
¨
The announcement was made by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at a public
event held in Thiruvananthapuram.
¨
With this decision, Kerala has set a new precedent at the national
level, where a microorganism has been formally recognized for the first time.
¨
This initiative signifies a move beyond traditional symbols (such as
animals or birds) to embrace a scientific and knowledge-based identity,
consistent with Kerala's tradition of education and research.
Centre of
Excellence in Microbiome
¨
Along with this announcement, a Centre of Excellence in Microbiome
(CoEM) was also launched.
¨ This center will study the effects of microorganisms on human health, nutrition, immunity, agriculture, fisheries, and environmental protection.
¨ According to the state government, Bacillus subtilis plays a crucial role in disease control and increasing productivity, and products developed from it can become high-value economic assets for Kerala.
