Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has called for enhancing private‑sector participation in India’s biotechnology ecosystem, emphasising stronger industry outreach to promote indigenous products and mobilise investment.
Chairing a meeting with senior officials of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), Dr Singh said the government is stepping up efforts to build a globally competitive biotechnology ecosystem through industrial collaboration, innovation funding and startup‑investor linkages.
He highlighted the BIRAC Research, Development and Innovation Fund (BIRAC‑RDIF) — a ₹5,200 crore initiative under the ₹1 lakh crore national RDI Fund — as a key driver to accelerate commercialisation of high‑risk, technology‑intensive biotech projects. The fund supports startups and industry with collateral‑free loans, equity and hybrid instruments covering up to 50 per cent of project costs.
BIRAC will also strengthen industry linkages through Life Sciences Global Capability Centres (GCCs), CSR partnerships, and a Startup‑Investor Connect platform to attract growth‑stage capital.
Dr Singh said the approach aims to bridge India’s scientific capabilities with industry and investors, ensuring that innovations move swiftly from laboratory to market. “The new initiatives will empower indigenous biotechnology and position India as a global leader under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” he added.
Officials from BIRAC and the Department of Biotechnology noted that the first national call under BIRAC‑RDIF has already received 198 applications, with eight technology entities shortlisted for detailed due diligence.
The meeting also discussed leveraging CSR investments for biotechnology‑led social innovation in healthcare, nutrition and climate‑resilient agriculture, and branding initiatives to enhance BIRAC’s global visibility.
