New Delhi. Science and Technology Minister Dr Jitendra Singh asserted that biotechnology has transcended purely academic laboratory research. He stated that the field now actively delivers concrete, real-world solutions across critical sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and industry. The Minister made these significant remarks while addressing the celebration of the 2nd Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) Foundation Day in New Delhi.
Dr Singh affirmed that India has firmly established itself as a global leader in biotechnology. Both the government and the private sector vigorously drive this leadership position through focused investments and strategic policies. The Minister characterised India’s progress through the “biotech corridor,” symbolising a new, dynamic era of scientific and technological advancement. He noted that India’s rapidly growing bioeconomy creates significant employment opportunities and strengthens economic resilience. This collective effort ensures that innovations quickly translate into tangible benefits for the public, securing India’s place at the forefront of global bio-innovation.
Sector-Specific Impact and Innovation
The Minister highlighted biotechnology’s profound impact on public welfare. In healthcare, the sector continuously develops advanced diagnostics and next-generation vaccines, fundamentally improving disease prevention and treatment outcomes. For agriculture, innovations like climate-resilient crops and bio-fertilizers significantly enhance food security and promote sustainable farming practices. Simultaneously, the industrial sector leverages biotech for sustainable manufacturing processes, including the production of biofuels and bio-based chemicals, minimising environmental footprints. These technological applications showcase how biotechnology offers viable, sustainable alternatives to conventional industrial methods.
Biotechnology : Empowering Future Innovators
During the Foundation Day event, the Minister reinforced the government’s commitment to fostering future talent. He officially launched the BRIC-BIRAC Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) Program. This program specifically empowers young innovators, offering them crucial support and mentorship. The EIR initiative aims to translate cutting-edge biotech ideas from the lab into successful, scalable commercial ventures. Dr Singh concluded that by directly supporting these entrepreneurs, the government accelerates the development of indigenous products and services, securing India’s technological self-reliance and boosting the overall bioeconomy.
