New Delhi: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Assam government have signed an MoU to develop biomanufacturing and bio-based industries under the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy.
This collaboration aims to set up a State BioE3 Cell in Assam and implement the Assam BioE3 Action Plan to drive biotechnology research and innovation.
Centre-State Collaboration for BioE3 Implementation
The MoU formalizes the partnership, with DBT providing technical guidance and research support while Assam will focus on local implementation and infrastructure development.
The agreement follows the Centre-State Partnership Conclave chaired by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh, where states were encouraged to work with DBT on biotechnology initiatives.
The BioE3 Policy, approved by the Union Cabinet in August 2024, aims to position India as a leader in sustainable biomanufacturing. Key focus areas include:
Bio-based chemicals and polymers
Enzymes and functional foods
Climate-resilient agriculture
Smart proteins and carbon capture
Precision biotherapeutics, including cell and gene therapy
Marine and space biotechnology research
To support these sectors, the policy also proposes setting up Biofoundries, Biomanufacturing Hubs, and BioAI Centers across India.
Assam’s Biotechnology Strategy
Assam officials confirmed that the state cabinet has approved the BioE3 Action Plan, and stakeholder consultations have been held to align the strategy with regional priorities.
The state aims to leverage its biodiversity and agricultural resources to build a biotechnology ecosystem that can support industry collaborations, research, and employment generation.
DBT Secretary Dr Rajesh S. Gokhale emphasized the importance of Centre-State partnerships in achieving BioE3 objectives. He noted that more states will be encouraged to set up BioE3 Cells to drive local biotechnology initiatives.
Future Implications
With this partnership, Assam is expected to see increased investment in bio-based industries, creating opportunities for research, entrepreneurship, and sustainable economic growth.
The initiative also aligns with India’s broader goal of developing a resilient biotechnology sector through targeted policy interventions and regional collaboration.
