Govt Pushes States for Bio-Manufacturing Growth

  • 08 Feb 2025

On 8th February 2025, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) held a consultation with States to accelerate bio-manufacturing under the Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment (BioE3) initiative, approved by the Union Cabinet last August.

  • The consultation focused on encouraging States to establish bio-manufacturing facilities and formulate policies to boost biotechnology production.
  • Bio-manufacturing involves industrial production of bio-based chemicals, bio-polymers, enzymes, smart proteins, precision bio-therapeutics, and climate-resilient agricultural products.
  • Union Science & Technology Minister emphasized biotechnology’s potential for major investments and urged States to take early steps for competitive advantage.
  • The roadmap includes setting up State-Centric BioE3 Cells, State-level steering committees, Bio-AI hubs, and bio-manufacturing hubs to strengthen local biotech industries.
  • States are encouraged to adopt at least two thematic areas from the BioE3 policy based on their strengths and prioritize bio-based products for manufacturing.
  • Many States have existing biotechnology policies, some dating back to 2002, offering tax credits and fellowships, but they stressed the need for greater financial and strategic support from the Centre.