BioE3 Policy Assam: DBT & State Govt Sign MoU to Boost Biomanufacturing & Innovation
BioE3 Policy Assam: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Government of Assam have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under the BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment). This first-ever Centre-State partnership under the BioE3 framework aims to accelerate high-performance biomanufacturing while fostering a sustainable biotechnology ecosystem in Assam, according to the Ministry of Science & Technology.
Key Highlights of the MoU
A First-of-Its-Kind Centre-State Partnership: This MoU is the first major collaboration under the BioE3 Policy, which was approved by the Union Cabinet on August 24, 2024.
Focus on Sustainable Biomanufacturing: The initiative aims to establish Assam as a hub for bio-based innovations, covering areas like bio-based chemicals, APIs, biopolymers, enzymes, climate-resilient agriculture, smart proteins, and carbon capture & utilization.
Assam’s Proactive Approach: The Assam government has already approved the Assam BioE3 Action Plan and established a State BioE3 Cell to drive this initiative.
DBT’s Strategic Support: DBT will provide guidance, technical expertise, and facilitate partnerships to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative.
Significance of the BioE3 Policy
The BioE3 Policy is designed to position India as a global leader in biotechnology innovation, with a focus on economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability. It integrates diverse fields such as:
Precision Biotherapeutics (cell and gene therapy, mRNA therapeutics, monoclonal antibodies)
Futuristic Marine and Space Research
Climate-Resilient Agriculture
Smart Proteins and Functional Foods
Carbon Capture & Utilization
Additionally, BioEnablers such as Biofoundries, Biomanufacturing Hubs, and BioAI Hubs will enhance the sector's capabilities.
MoU Signing Ceremony
The signing event took place at DBT headquarters in New Delhi, in the presence of key dignitaries:
Dr Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary, DBT, DG BRIC & Chairman, BIRAC
Dr Ravi Kota, Chief Secretary, Government of Assam
Dr Alka Sharma, Senior Adviser, DBT
Pallav Gopal Jha, Secretary, Department of Science, Technology & Climate Change, Assam
Dr Jitendra Kumar, MD, BIRAC
Dr Ravi Kota emphasized that several discussions with key stakeholders helped refine the Assam BioE3 Action Plan to align with the state’s strategic goals. Dr Rajesh Gokhale highlighted the importance of Centre-State partnerships in fulfilling the BioE3 Policy’s vision for sustainable economic growth and biotechnology innovation.
Impact of the Assam-DBT Partnership
This MoU marks a new chapter in biotechnology development by strengthening the collaboration between the Central and State governments. It lays the foundation for:
Innovative biomanufacturing practices
Boosting economic growth through bio-based industries
Generating employment in the biotechnology sector
Advancing research in bio-based solutions for sustainability
With this initiative, Assam is set to become a pioneer in biotechnology-driven economic transformation, positioning India as a global leader in bio-innovation.
