STATE TIMES NEWS
MOHALI: Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, on Monday inaugurated the new campus of India’s first Biomanufacturing Institute, “BRIC-National Agri-Food Bio-Manufacturing Institute” (BRIC-NABI) aimed at enhancing India’s agri-food sector through advanced biotechnology.
Addressing the assembly of scientists, industry leaders, and stakeholders, the Minister emphasized the government’s dedication to fostering innovation in agriculture, creating job opportunities, and promoting environmental sustainability-essential elements in achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Viksit Bharat.”
During the inauguration, Dr. Jitendra underscored the Modi government’s robust prioritization of science and technology, referencing recent landmark decisions such as the newly launched BioE3 policy. This initiative, which stands for biotechnology in the service of the economy, employment, and the environment, exemplifies the administration’s focus on fostering a high-impact science sector. “Biotechnology and synthetic production will not only transform agriculture but redefine India’s role in global scientific advancements,” stated the Minister.
In his address, Dr. Jitendra noted that India is among the first nations to implement an exclusive biotechnology policy. This shift, he emphasized, will propel a significant transformation from traditional manufacturing to synthetic production through sustainable, eco-friendly solutions that rely on modern, cost-effective technology. The Minister lauded India’s rapid rise from “fragile five” to “first five” in global economic standing, crediting this progress to the government’s science-focused strategy.
Dr. Jitendra highlighted that this consolidation would drive efficiency in agricultural R&D, paving the way for high-yield, disease-resistant crops, biofertilizers, and biopesticides. These advancements not only align with the government’s ambition to double farmers’ incomes but also promote sustainable, eco-friendly practices, creating new income avenues for farmers and supporting broader environmental objectives.
Through joint efforts with both public and private sectors, the Minister said, BioNEST strives to drive inclusive economic growth, aligning with the “Make in India” vision and advancing India’s journey toward self-reliance. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized the need for active private sector involvement, noting that investment in such incubators can unlock market potential and provide sustainable employment for India’s young workforce.
Aimed at researchers and industry professionals, this event supports the government’s BioE3 policy and reflects India’s commitment to eco-friendly, innovation-driven industrial growth, the Minister noted.
Dr Jitendra also addressed the brain drain of Indian scientists, encouraging young talent to pursue research and entrepreneurship within India, emphasizing the country’s competitive resources and a growing scientific ecosystem that rivals global institutions. This national focus on developing indigenous expertise, he believes, will strengthen India’s global influence in science and innovation.
The establishment of the BRIC-National Agri-Food Bio-Manufacturing Institute marks a pivotal step in India’s journey toward an integrated, science-powered economy, aligned with the Modi government’s ambitious development goals.