Govt Introduce of “Regional Centre for Biotechnology Bill, 2015” in the Parliament

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi has given its approval for introduction of a Bill for establishment of a Regional Centre for Biotechnology in Faridabad.

Objective: To provide a legal status to the Centre so as to function independently as an autonomous body and also an Institution of National Importance for education, training and research in the areas of biotechnology.

What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is a broad discipline in which biological processes, organisms, cells or cellular components are exploited to develop new technologies. New tools and products developed by biotechnologists are useful in research, agriculture, industry and clinics.

Biotechnology industry status in India

(A) It’s the third biggest biotech industry in the Asia-Pacific region. (B) It’s No. 1 producer of Hepatitis B vaccine recombinant.(C)  USD 3.7 Billion to be spent on biotechnology from 2012-17.

Agencies in India for promoting or advancing biotechnology 1. Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India 2. Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India 3. Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council 4. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research 5. Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises 6. Confederation of Indian Industry 7. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry