Centre, Assam govt ink pact to develop eco-friendly biotech hub under BioE3 policy

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) on Wednesday signed a deal with the Assam Government under the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy to boost sustainable biotech and create a thriving biotechnology hub in the northeastern state.

The BioE3 Policy, approved by the Union Cabinet on August 24, 2024, aims to make India a global leader in eco-friendly biotech innovations. It covers areas like bio-based chemicals, medicines, biopolymers, enzymes, climate-smart farming, healthy foods, smart proteins, carbon capture, and cutting-edge treatments like gene therapy.

“By integrating these diverse fields, the Policy seeks to drive both economic growth and environmental sustainability. These Sectors will be augmented by BioEnablers (setting up of Biofoundries, Biomanufacturing and BioAI Hubs),” a government release said.

The agreement was signed in the presence of top officials, including DBT Secretary Rajesh S Gokhale, Assam Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, and DBT Senior Adviser Alka Sharma, among others.

Gokhale called the deal a “new chapter” in the Centre-state collaboration, saying it’s a transformative framework for sustainable growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship.

Kota said that Assam has established a dedicated State-level BioE3 Cell, adding that several discussion meetings with key stakeholders were held to refine the Action Plan and ensure it aligns with the State’s strategic objectives.

Under the deal, DBT will guide and connect Assam to opportunities, while the state will take the lead by launching its BioE3 Cell and crafting a detailed roadmap.

“This MoU between DBT and the Government of Assam, not only signifies a pivotal moment in Centre-State collaboration under the BioE3 Policy but also lays the groundwork for a new era of transformative innovation, sustainable economic growth, and inclusive employment opportunities,” the statement read.

“With this partnership, both DBT, Govt. of India and the Govt. of Assam are charting a course toward a resilient and environmentally responsible biotechnology ecosystem that will benefit India for generations to come,” it added.