India's Journey Towards a Bio-Driven Economy: Insights from Dr. Jitendra Singh
Synopsis
India is embarking on a transformative path towards a bio-driven economy, driven by advancements in biotechnology. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlights the significance of new facilities and policies that aim to position India as a global leader in this sector.
Key Takeaways
India is shifting towards a bio-driven economy with a focus on biotechnology.
The newly inaugurated facility will enhance capabilities in drug discovery and genomics.
India's bioeconomy has grown significantly, with expectations of further expansion.
Strong policy support underpins the growth of the biotechnology sector.
India now boasts over 11,000 biotechnology startups .
New Delhi, March 1 (NationPress) India is on the brink of transitioning to a bio-driven economy, with biotechnology poised to revolutionize the sectors of manufacturing, healthcare, and sustainable development, stated Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh this Sunday.
The Minister made these remarks during the inauguration of a cutting-edge “Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors” at the BRIC-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB) located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, coinciding with National Science Day.
“This new facility will enhance India's prowess in drug discovery and genomics in both medical and agricultural domains,” he remarked.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, who holds the Independent Charge of the Ministry of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, among other significant roles, also laid the groundwork for a specialized GMP facility at the institute.
Additionally, he unveiled a publication titled “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years” written by Prof. V.P.N. Nampoori.
While addressing scientists, students, and industry stakeholders at the Akkulam campus of BRIC-RGCB, the Minister emphasized that in the past decade, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, biotechnology has garnered substantial policy backing.
“This support has enabled India to become a global biotechnology hub,” Singh elaborated. He highlighted the recently introduced BioE3 Policy, which positions India among the few nations with a dedicated biotechnology policy aimed at fostering economic growth, environmental sustainability, and job creation, in anticipation of a global shift toward biomanufacturing and bio-based industries.
Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that India's bioeconomy has seen an impressive expansion, increasing nearly sixteenfold over the last decade.
It has surged from approximately $10 billion to close to $166 billion and is projected to reach $300 billion in the near future.
He noted that the number of biotechnology startups has escalated from around 50–70 in 2014 to over 11,000 today, indicating a robust ecosystem of innovation fueled by policy reforms and financial support, including initiatives for deep-tech startups.
Regarding the newly inaugurated Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors, the Minister stated it embodies years of dedicated research support.
The facility comprises an extensive array of engineered recombinant cells and sophisticated screening systems, all developed through long-term government-funded initiatives.
Point of View
The developments in India's biotechnology sector reflect a proactive approach towards enhancing economic growth and sustainability. The government's commitment to supporting innovation and research is commendable and positions India well on the global stage.
NationPress
1 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the new Central Facility for Recombinant Cells and Sensors?
The new facility will enhance India's capabilities in drug discovery and genomics, contributing significantly to both medical and agricultural advancements.
How much has India's bioeconomy grown recently?
India's bioeconomy has expanded from about $10 billion to nearly $166 billion over the past decade, with projections to reach $300 billion soon.
What is the BioE3 Policy?
The BioE3 Policy is a dedicated biotechnology policy introduced by India that focuses on economic growth, environmental conservation, and job creation.
How many biotechnology startups are currently operating in India?
The number of biotechnology startups in India has surged from around 50–70 in 2014 to over 11,000 today.
Who inaugurated the new facility in Thiruvananthapuram?
The new facility was inaugurated by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on the occasion of National Science Day.
