India to Lead Global Biotechnology Revolution in 2025, Says Science Minister Jitendra Singh

India is poised to play a transformative role in the global biotechnology revolution by 2025, thanks to its first-ever biotechnology policy, BIO-E3, introduced by the Modi government. Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh made this announcement during an exclusive interview with Doordarshan News on Wednesday.

The BIO-E3 policy, which stands for Biotechnology for Economy, Employment, and Environment, aims to revolutionize India's economic landscape, foster job creation, and promote environmental sustainability. Singh emphasized that this landmark policy has set the stage for India’s ascent as a global biotechnology leader.

India’s Biotechnology Growth Story

Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s exceptional progress in the biotechnology sector, which has grown exponentially from a $10 billion industry in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024. The sector is projected to reach a valuation of $300 billion by 2030, underlining India’s pivotal role in the global biotechnology ecosystem.

“India is now at the centre of the global biotech boom, which will foster innovation, create jobs, and strengthen environmental commitments,” said Singh.

India’s Biotechnology Ecosystem: A Game Changer

India’s biotechnology sector encompasses diverse areas such as Bio-Pharma, Bio-Agri, Bio-Industrial, Bio-Energy, Bio-Services, and Med-Tech. The Minister praised Indian start-ups for their groundbreaking solutions, including innovations like non-human milk and sustainable products.

Singh also highlighted the country’s immense natural resources and biodiversity, which provide a strong foundation for India’s biotechnology revolution. He likened this bio-revolution to the IT boom that transformed the West, signaling India’s rise as a global powerhouse in biotech innovation.

Achievements in Biotechnology

The Minister pointed out some of India’s remarkable achievements:

• India accounts for 60% of global vaccine production and operates the second-largest number of USFDA-approved manufacturing plants outside the United States.

• Indigenous breakthroughs during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the launch of DNA-based vaccines and the execution of the world’s largest vaccination drive.

• Development of the world’s first HPV vaccine, the antibiotic ‘Nafithromycin’, and successful gene therapy for Haemophilia.

Investments and Future Roadmap

With the Indian government allocating ₹1000 crores in 2024 to accelerate biotech innovations, the country is taking bold steps to solidify its position as a global leader in biotechnology. Singh also mentioned government initiatives such as the Deep Sea Mission and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), which focus on innovation through private-sector collaboration.

Bridging Biotechnology and Emerging Technologies

The Minister further celebrated India’s leadership in other cutting-edge technologies, including quantum technology and space exploration, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to driving scientific and technological innovation.

India’s biotechnology sector is now positioned as a critical driver of the nation’s economy, environment, and employment, reinforcing its role in the global innovation landscape.

Conclusion

India is on the cusp of a biotechnology revolution, poised to take the global stage as a leader in innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. With the introduction of the BIO-E3 policy, the government has laid a robust foundation for transforming the sector into a $300 billion industry by 2030. The strides made in vaccine production, groundbreaking innovations, and sustainable biotech solutions highlight the country’s commitment to harnessing its potential in biotechnology.

Backed by strong investments, initiatives like the Deep Sea Mission and Anusandhan NRF, and an ecosystem fostering start-ups and R&D, India is charting a future that aligns science, economy, and the environment. As Minister Jitendra Singh aptly pointed out, India is not just participating in the global biotech boom but leading it, setting an example for innovation-driven progress.

With a holistic approach to technology and science, India’s journey in biotechnology is not just a testament to its capabilities but a promise to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of life sciences and sustainability.