The Government’s ambitious BioE3 Policy—short for Biotechnology for Economy, Environment & Employment—emerged as the focal point of a high-level joint review meeting of all Science Ministries, chaired by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. Held in the national capital on Monday, the review convened top scientific officials to evaluate inter-ministerial initiatives and promote a unified, outcome-driven vision in alignment with India’s Vision 2047.
Approved by the Cabinet in August 2024, the BioE3 Policy is designed to transform India into a global hub for sustainable biomanufacturing by leveraging biotechnology and artificial intelligence. The Minister was informed about the overwhelming response to the policy’s first round of DBT-BIRAC ( Department of Biotechnology- Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance) joint calls, which attracted over 2,000 proposals. Calling it a “national mission,” Dr. Singh emphasized its role in driving green growth, expanding the bioeconomy, and generating employment across sectors.
The BioE3 framework focuses on five critical domains—Carbon Capture and Utilization, Precision Biotherapeutics, Smart Proteins, Enzymes, and Climate-Resilient Agriculture. Nearly 40% of the selected proposals are being led by startups and private industry through public-private partnership (PPP) models. Academic institutions, meanwhile, are at the forefront of agri-biotech innovations. These initiatives are being supported by the national MoolankurBioEnabler Network, a cutting-edge platform comprising Bio-AI Hubs, biofoundries, and biomanufacturing centers.
In a strategic move to reverse brain drain, the Minister also reviewed a proposal to introduce 100 post-doctoral fellowships for Indian scientists working abroad. “We must offer meaningful opportunities to attract our talent back,” Dr. Singh stated, underlining the importance of building domestic research capabilities.
The review also covered developments in India’s energy sector. Officials provided updates on ongoing site assessments in Bihar for new nuclear power plants. These evaluations, focusing on land availability, water resources, seismic stability, and soil conditions, are being conducted in collaboration with state authorities. Final approval will rest with the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board.
India’s space programme also received significant attention. A recent technological advancement is set to boost the payload capacity of the GSLV Mark-3 rocket by 20%—achieved without structural modifications. Officials further disclosed that a near-crisis during an international satellite launch was averted after a crack in the fuel line was promptly detected and rectified. Dr. Singh lauded the swift action and high level of preparedness demonstrated by the technical teams.
Preparations are now underway for National Space Day, which will highlight the contributions of India’s thriving space startup ecosystem. Over 300 private firms are expected to participate in live demonstrations and exhibitions, showcasing innovations that are fast becoming integral to India’s space ambitions.
Educational outreach also featured prominently in the discussions. The Ministry is exploring ways to expand initiatives such as Vigyan Jyoti, which has witnessed growing participation from schoolgirls nationwide. In response to rising interest from students in Classes 6 to 10, efforts are being made to broaden early-stage mentorship and innovation programmes.
Calling for greater inter-ministerial alignment, Dr. Singh directed departments to channel key proposals through the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser for better strategic coordination. “We must avoid overlaps and work in unison to achieve national outcomes,” he said.