India's Vision for a Bio-Driven Economy: Minister Unveils New Biotechnology Facility

Advancing Biotechnology in India

New Delhi, March 2: India is gearing up for a bio-driven economy, with biotechnology poised to revolutionize manufacturing, healthcare, and sustainable development, stated Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on Sunday.

The Minister made these remarks during the inauguration of the cutting-edge “Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors” at the BRIC-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, coinciding with National Science Day.

Dr. Singh emphasized that this new facility will enhance India's capabilities in drug discovery and genomics related to medicine and agriculture.

In his role overseeing the Ministry of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, he also laid the groundwork for a dedicated GMP facility at the institute.

Additionally, he unveiled a book titled “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years,” authored by Prof. V.P.N. Nampoori.

While addressing an audience of scientists, students, and industry leaders at the Akkulam campus of BRIC-RGCB, the Minister noted that biotechnology has received robust policy backing over the past decade under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

“This support has positioned India as a global hub for biotechnology,” Singh remarked. He highlighted the recently introduced BioE3 Policy, which makes India one of the few nations to implement a dedicated biotechnology policy aimed at enhancing the economy, environment, and employment, in anticipation of a global shift towards biomanufacturing and bio-based industries.

Dr. Singh pointed out that India's bioeconomy has surged nearly sixteen-fold in the last ten years, growing from approximately $10 billion to nearly $166 billion, with projections to reach $300 billion in the near future.

He also noted a significant rise in biotechnology start-ups, which have increased from around 50–70 in 2014 to over 11,000 today, showcasing a vibrant innovation ecosystem supported by policy reforms and funding initiatives, including those for deep-tech start-ups.

Regarding the newly launched Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors, the Minister stated that it symbolizes years of dedicated research support.

The facility is equipped with a diverse array of engineered recombinant cells and sophisticated screening systems developed through extensive government-funded programs.