Dr. Nitya Anand, Discoverer of India’s First Oral Contraceptive Pill, Passes Away.

Obituary | Dated: 24 Jan 2026

Dr. Nitya Anand, a renowned scientist and former Director of CDRI (Central Drug Research Institute), passed away at 99. He is best known for discovering "Centchroman", popularly known as "Saheli", India's first non-steroidal weekly oral contraceptive pill.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • Saheli was launched by Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in 1986.
  • He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2012.
  • He published over 400 research papers and held 130 patents.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • Person: Dr. Nitya Anand.
  • Invention: Saheli Pill.
  • Institute: CDRI.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Dr. Nitya Anand, who passed away recently, was associated with the development of which famous contraceptive pill?

Correct Answer: Saheli

🚀 Quick Recap:

About CDRI

  • Location – Lucknow
  • Parent Body – CSIR