Kerala’s Tiny Titan: The Rise of India’s First State Microbe - Bacillus Subtilis
Kerala has etched its name in scientific history as the first Indian state to officially declare a “ State Microbe .” In a move that blends cutting-edge science with traditional wisdom, Bacillus subtilis—a humble yet powerful soil-dwelling probiotic bacterium—has been chosen to embody the state’s vision for sustainable agriculture and health innovation. A Groundbreaking Announcement On January 23, 2026 , Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan made this historic declaration while inaugurating the Centre of Excellence in Microbiome (CoEM) in Thiruvananthapuram. This milestone is far more than symbolic. Under the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE), the CoEM will focus on harnessing microbes to drive progress in human health, nutrition, and the preservation of our iconic, paddy-rich landscapes. The Magic of Bacillus Subtilis Thriving in Kerala’s fertile soils, fermented staples like idli batter, and even our own gut microbiomes, B. subtili...