Dr Jitendra Singh Calls for Leveraging Regional Strengths to Build a Robust Bioinnovation Ecosystem
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh during a review meeting in New Delhi on Thursday.
DBT initiates mapping of states, plans Bio E3 Cells to expand India’s biotechnology footprint
Minister felicitates DBT Joint Secretary Ekta Vishnoi for winning silver at World Powerlifting Championship
New Delhi, October 24: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh on Thursday urged the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to leverage regional strengths and deepen collaboration with states to build a robust, inclusive bioinnovation ecosystem across the country.
Chairing a review meeting of DBT’s ongoing projects and new initiatives, the Minister emphasized that India’s biotechnology sector has evolved into a key pillar of national development, contributing to the economy through advancements in healthcare, agriculture, environment, and industrial innovation.
He highlighted that the government’s approach aims to make biotechnology an enabler of economic and social transformation by linking research institutions, startups, and state governments within a unified innovation framework.
Mapping States and Building Bio E3 Cells
During the review, DBT presented progress on projects ranging from biofoundries and regional innovation hubs to the mapping of states based on biotechnology potential. Dr Singh underlined that DBT’s new initiative to establish Bio E3 Cells — focusing on Entrepreneurship, Education, and Empowerment — will help expand India’s bio-innovation footprint and align national priorities with regional capabilities.
“These initiatives will enable states to identify and develop their unique biotechnology strengths, creating local value chains that fuel the national bioeconomy,” Dr Singh said.
Linking Biotechnology with Performance Science
In a special gesture during the meeting, Dr Singh felicitated Ekta Vishnoi, IRS, Joint Secretary, DBT, for winning a silver medal at the World Powerlifting Championship. Congratulating her, the Minister said her achievement reflects the discipline, resilience, and teamwork that also define India’s scientific and technological advancement.
He observed that DBT’s work in human physiology, metabolic research, and health technologies could significantly advance performance science, illustrating how biotechnology and sports can converge to build a stronger, healthier nation.
Towards a Regionally Driven Bioeconomy
Dr Singh called upon DBT to deepen engagement with state governments, universities, and local industries to unlock the economic potential of biotechnology at the grassroots. He praised DBT’s initiatives in supporting innovation-led startups and fostering an ecosystem that encourages young researchers and entrepreneurs to translate ideas into solutions.
“Biotechnology provides answers to some of India’s most pressing challenges — from sustainable agriculture to affordable healthcare and environmental resilience. Every region must benefit from this scientific momentum through coordinated policy, investment, and capacity building,” he stated.
A Call for Accelerated Implementation
The review concluded with a call to accelerate project execution and strengthen inter-governmental collaboration, marking a renewed push towards making India a global hub for biotechnology-driven innovation and sustainable growth.
