‘’Biotechnology is a Priority’’ MoS Jitendra Singh Discusses Biotech Partnership with AP Govt

With support from initiatives like the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) funding and national biotech missions, Andhra Pradesh has seen substantial growth in biotech startups and industry collaborations.

Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Y Satya Kumar has recently met Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh to discuss collaboration in the biotechnology sector.

During their meeting, the two leaders explored opportunities to scale up biotechnology projects in Andhra Pradesh and strengthen ongoing initiatives with support from the central government.

“Biotechnology remains a priority sector under the present government,” said Dr Jitendra Singh, while assuring “full support to Andhra Pradesh from the Centre.”

“Over the years, Andhra Pradesh has emerged as a key player in India’s biotechnology sector in areas such as biopharmaceutical research, marine biotechnology, and agricultural biotech solutions,” Singh added.

He also highlighted the transformative potential of biotechnology in areas such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable startups, noting Andhra Pradesh’s significant role in driving these advancements.

The state has several biotech incubators and research institutions fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

More than 10,000 startups are currently operating in the country's biotechnology sector. Of these, "70 percent is focused on medical and health biotech, with the rest contributing to agriculture, environment, and industrial biotechnology.", the MoS said.

Satya Kumar expressed his gratitude to the Modi Government for its consistent support and highlighted the state’s dedication to utilizing biotechnology for advancements in healthcare and industrial applications.

With support from initiatives like the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) funding and national biotech missions, Andhra Pradesh has seen substantial growth in biotech startups and industry collaborations.

This meeting comes as India intensifies efforts toward self-reliance in biotechnology and expands its global presence in research and innovation.

Andhra Pradesh’s push to strengthen its biotech ecosystem signals a new phase of state-centre collaboration in this rapidly growing sector.

In a similar development, the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) is actively promoting the Promotion of Research and Innovation in the Pharma MedTech Sector (PRIP) scheme to strengthen India’s research ecosystem in pharmaceuticals and medical technology.

In a related move towards sustainable biotechnology, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Government of Assam have signed a Memorandum of Understanding under the BioE3 Policy.

This landmark collaboration, the first of its kind under the BioE3 framework, seeks to establish a state-of-the-art robotic biomanufacturing ecosystem in Assam.

The BioE3 Policy, which received Union Cabinet approval on August 24, 2024, envisions India as a frontrunner in bio-based innovations, promoting areas such as healthcare, bio-based chemicals, climate-resilient agriculture, and precision biotherapeutics.

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