New Delhi, Feb 2 (NationPress) The introduction of affordable medications, vaccines, and diagnostics bolstered by domestic biomanufacturing is poised to offer significant social and economic assistance, particularly to the middle class and marginalized groups, according to Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, during a press briefing on Monday.

While addressing reporters post-Budget, Dr. Singh emphasized that the forthcoming benefits may take time to manifest fully, yet the Budget showcases a definitive, methodical vision where structural reforms are enhanced by cutting-edge technologies, increasingly propelled by artificial intelligence.

Dr. Singh responded to queries regarding support for the middle class, asserting that the lasting impact of the Budget lies in long-term relief from escalating healthcare and living expenses, as opposed to mere short-term income assessments.

He pointed out that substantial investments in biopharma, diagnostics, vaccines, and gene-based therapies will notably alleviate the financial strain on families coping with chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.

The minister highlighted alarming statistics, noting the presence of over 11–12 crore diabetics, nearly 14 crore pre-diabetics, and a swiftly rising cancer incidence, with projections anticipating two million cases annually by 2030.

Regarding the Rs 10,000 crore Biopharma Shakti initiative, Dr. Singh stated that India has already positioned itself as a global leader in bio-manufacturing, ranking among the top bio-economies worldwide, particularly within the Indo-Pacific region.

He mentioned that the new financial allocation would further solidify this status by enhancing capabilities in biologics, biosimilars, vaccines, medical devices, and gene-based technologies.

The minister described biotechnology as the forthcoming major industrial catalyst, akin to the role of IT in prior decades, forecasting that the next industrial revolution will be characterized by a bio-revolution, involving recycling, regeneration, circular economy, and advanced life-science innovations.

Dr. Singh noted that the Budget also addresses non-communicable diseases and mental health, domains that have often been overlooked in the past. He announced the establishment of new super-specialty academic and clinical institutes for mental health in North India, ensuring broader and fairer access to care.

Additionally, the minister underscored the initiative to create new institutes for Ayurveda and pharmaceutical education, asserting that these efforts will reinforce traditional medicine systems while integrating them with contemporary research and healthcare delivery.