In view of increasing instances of physical attacks on women, the DRDO has developed a chilli-spray for protection using the world's hottest chilli grown in Assam, Rajya Sabha was informed today.

"Yes, Defence Research laboratory in Tezpur has developed a chilli-spray called Capsispray. It is a non-lethal spray for personal protection and self-defence," Defence Minister A K Antony said in reply to a written query.

"It contains Oleoresin Capsicum extracted from world's hottest chilli Bhut Jolokia, largely cultivated in Assam and other parts of northeast," he said.

The Minister was asked if the spray was developed in view of growing instances of attacks on women.