BioE3 Policy: DBT partners with Assam to foster sustainable biotech ecosystem
Published on Mar 12, 2025
By IANS

- NEW DELHI — The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Government of Assam
signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the BioE3
(Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy, said the
Ministry of Science & Technology on Wednesday.
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- It is the first Centre-State partnership under the BioE3
framework, and it aims to accelerate high-performance biomanufacturing while
fostering a sustainable biotechnology ecosystem in Assam.
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- The BioE3 Policy, approved by the Union Cabinet in August
2024, envisages establishing India as a global leader in bio-based innovations.
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- It also emphasises sustainable biomanufacturing across
various thematic areas including bio-based chemicals, APIs, biopolymers,
enzymes, climate-resilient agriculture, functional foods, smart proteins,
carbon capture and utilisation, precision biotherapeutics (cell and gene
therapy, mRNA therapeutics and monoclonal antibody), as well as futuristic marine
and space research.
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- The MoU formalises a strategic collaboration in which DBT
will extend its guidance and facilitate partnerships, while the Assam
government will spearhead initiatives by establishing a State BioE3 Cell. It
will also develop an Assam BioE3 Action Plan.
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- The collaboration underscores Assam’s proactive approach to
harnessing its rich biodiversity and agricultural strength to build a robust
biomanufacturing ecosystem in the State.
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- “The Assam Cabinet has approved the Assam BioE3 Action Plan
and established a dedicated State-level BioE3 Cell, underscoring the state’s
proactive approach to biotechnology innovation,” Dr. Ravi Kota, Chief
Secretary, Assam.
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- Kota said that several discussion meetings with key
stakeholders were held to refine the Action Plan and ensure it aligns with the
State’s strategic objectives.
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- “The crucial role of Centre-State partnership in achieving
the goals of the BioE3 Policy by establishing BioE3 Cells in the States,” said
Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary, DBT.
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- He emphasised that the BioE3 Policy is a transformative
framework for sustainable growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship.
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- This MoU not only signifies a pivotal moment in Centre-State
collaboration under the BioE3 Policy but also lays the groundwork for a new era
of transformative innovation, sustainable economic growth, and inclusive
employment opportunities.
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