Sept. 16, 2024
Centre’s BioE3 Policy: Harnessing Biotechnology for Economic Development
Context: The recently launched BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) policy aims to transform manufacturing processes across sectors to be more sustainable and less wasteful, utilizing biotechnology to mimic natural biological systems.
This marks the beginning of the “industrialisation of biology” with potential economic impacts.
BioE3 Policy:
Aims to boost biomanufacturing and bio-based products across sectors, aligning with goals like a ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy and circular bioeconomy. It focuses on R&D innovation, biomanufacturing hubs, skilled workforce development, and ethical biosafety. Core areas include bio-chemicals, smart proteins, precision biotherapeutics, and climate-resilient agriculture.
Vigyan Dhara Scheme:
A unified scheme by the Department of Science & Technology to enhance R&D, increase researcher numbers, and improve gender parity in science. It focuses on sustainable energy, water, and promotes innovation across education and industry. Aligns with India’s vision of “ViksitBharat 2047.”
Benefits of Biotechnology:
• Sustainability: Biotechnology offers eco-friendly alternatives to traditional products like plastics and fuels.
• Medical & Agricultural Applications: New possibilities in areas like gene editing, protein synthesis, and organ engineering.
• Environmental Impact: Biological carbon capture through microorganisms reduces the need for traditional storage methods.
• BioE3 Policy’s Impact on India:
• Long-Term Vision: Prepares India to harness future biotechnologies, promoting research, education, and industry partnerships.
• Biomanufacturing Hubs: Focuses on bio-based chemicals, smart proteins, climate-resilient agriculture, and space/marine research.
India’s Bio-Economy
India ranks among the top 12 global biotech destinations and 3rd in the Asia-Pacific region. In 2024, its BioEconomyreached $130 billion, with a goal of $300 billion by 2030. The biotech sector includes Biopharmaceuticals, Bio Agriculture, Bio IT, and Bio Services. India is a leading producer of low-cost drugs, vaccines, and biosimilars. With 55% of its land dedicated to agriculture, India is a major player in Bt-Cotton and organic farming.
Challenges in Biotechnology
• Ownership and Access: Patents on biotechnologies can limit access, especially in developing countries.
• Ethical Issues: Biotech innovations like cDNA raise concerns about human life and commercialization of genetic material.
• Uncertainty: Emerging genomic techniques bring unknown risks and potential for harm.
• Security Threats: Synthetic biology advancements could be misused for creating biological weapons.
• Environmental Impact: Agricultural biotech may affect ecosystems, non-target species, and pollinators due to changes in pesticide use and pest-resistant crops.
Government Initiatives:
• 9 biotech parks and 60 bio-incubators.
• Rs. 2,251 crore allocated to biotech in the 2024-25 budget.
• National Biopharma Mission and Biotechnology Development Strategy 2020-25 support skill development and innovation.
Way Ahead:
• India’s young, skilled workforce and scientific resources are key to future growth. More biotech incubators and a strong biomanufacturing ecosystem will drive innovation and start-ups, boosting the industry.
• Though results will take time, BioE3 aligns with India’s broader technology missions, positioning the country for future economic benefits