The Ministry of Science & Technology hosted the 9th Molecular Virology Meeting (MVM 2026) at BRIC–National Institute of Immunology in New Delhi on 18th September 2026. The two-day gathering brought together approximately 200 clinicians, researchers and students from across India to discuss how virology research can be turned into vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics and public health tools. The meeting, which began in 2009, has become an annual platform for India’s virology research community.
What was discussed
The meeting covered research on multiple viral systems including influenza, dengue, chikungunya, HIV, hepatitis E, West Nile virus, coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus. Sessions examined viral entry and replication, how the body responds to viruses, immune regulation, viral adaptation and the molecular basis of disease.
A keynote address by Dr Naveen Kumar, Director of ICMR–National Institute of Virology in Pune, opened the meeting with focus on how host factors either block or enable viral infection. A major theme was bridging the gap between basic virology research and practical applications. One dedicated session explored antiviral therapeutics, antibody discovery and theranostics alongside studies of viral evolution and disease spread.
A panel discussion titled “Future of Virology Research and its Contribution in BioE3 Policy: Advancing Towards Viksit Bharat” brought together researchers, industry representatives and scientists from government institutes. The discussion examined how India’s virology strengths can support the vision of a developed nation, with focus on several areas:
- Creating better pathways from laboratory discovery to scaled products
- Developing platform technologies that can serve multiple purposes
- Funding systems that support translation beyond single research projects
- Stronger partnerships between academia, industry and government
- Improving disease surveillance and health security capabilities
The event was organised by BRIC–NII with support from the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) and the Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB).
What this means for you
The meeting signals the government’s push to move Indian virology research beyond basic science into real-world applications like new drugs and vaccines. For students and early-career researchers, it demonstrates the value of connecting with the broader research ecosystem. For those in public health, it highlights India’s capability to address viral disease threats through coordinated research and preparedness efforts.