New Delhi – In a significant development for India’s biotechnology sector, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has declared that India is on track to become one of the top 5 Global Bio-manufacturing Hubs by 2025. Dr. Singh made this announcement while launching the website of “Global Bio-India – 2023,” a major international gathering on Biotechnology scheduled to take place at Pragati Maidan from December 4 to December 6, 2023.
Impressive Growth in India’s Bio-economy
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the remarkable growth of India’s bio-economy over the past nine years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He mentioned that India’s bio-economy has seen a double-digit growth rate year-on-year during this period. In 2014, India’s bio-economy was valued at approximately $10 billion, and today it stands at a staggering $80 billion, an eight-fold increase in just 8-9 years. Dr. Singh expressed optimism that India could reach $300 billion by 2030.
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Biotechnology: The Technology of Tomorrow
During his speech, Dr. Singh emphasized the significance of biotechnology, asserting that it is the technology of the future. He noted that the information technology (IT) sector has reached its saturation point, while biotechnology presents vast untapped potential for growth and innovation.
Booming Biotech Startups
Dr. Singh pointed out the rapid growth of biotech startups in India, with their numbers increasing from 52 in 2014 to over 6,300 today. He highlighted the critical role of these startups in shaping India’s future economy and providing innovative technological solutions.
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Abundant Bioresources in India
India’s wealth of bioresources, including unique biodiversity in the Himalayas and a 7,500-kilometer coastline, gives the country a distinct advantage in biotechnology. Dr. Singh also mentioned the launch of “Samudrayaan,” a project to explore biodiversity beneath the seas, as an example of India’s commitment to harnessing its bioresources.
Promising Developments in Bio-based Products
Dr. Singh discussed the potential of bio-based products in replacing petrochemical-based manufacturing. These products, including food additives, bioengineering ties, and animal feed products, offer cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternatives.
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Success in Agriculture Technology (Agritech)
He highlighted the success of Agritech startups, with over 3,000 startups engaged in areas like Aroma Mission and Lavender cultivation. These startups have created opportunities for individuals, including those without extensive qualifications.
Promoting Research and Development
Dr. Singh mentioned that the Department of Biotechnology has been supporting research and innovations in advanced biofuels and ‘Waste to Energy’ technologies, with the aim of reducing waste to zero.
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Encouraging Youth Interest in Biotechnology
Biotechnology has become a popular career choice among Indian youth, with growing interest in areas like Synthetic Technology, Genome Editing, Microbial Bioresources, and Metabolic Engineering.
India’s Emerging Role in Preventive Healthcare
India’s vaccine strategy, Mission Suraksha, has brought together pharmaceutical companies, industry, and academia to address current and future healthcare challenges. India is now recognized as a global vaccination hub.
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Enabling Environment for Entrepreneurship
Dr. Singh praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and industry growth. He emphasized the need for collaboration with the private sector to harness India’s unexploited resources.
National Research Foundation (NRF) – A Game Changer
Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), envisioned by Prime Minister Modi. NRF is expected to significantly boost research and development efforts in India, making the country a global R&D leader in the next five years. It will combine scientific and technological innovation with humanities and social sciences.
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Synergy Across Professions
Dr. Singh called for broader synergy among all professions to achieve India’s long-term goals. He emphasized the collective effort of science, government, and the nation.
In conclusion, Dr. Jitendra Singh’s vision for India’s biotechnology sector is one of rapid growth, innovation, and global leadership. With a strong emphasis on biotech startups, research and development, and international collaboration, India is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of biotechnology on a global scale.
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