India’s First Agri-Food Biomanufacturing Institute Inaugurated to Revolutionize Agriculture through Biotechnology

New Delhi: Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and other portfolios, inaugurated India’s first Biomanufacturing Institute, the BRIC-National Agri-Food Bio-Manufacturing Institute (BRIC-NABI), dedicated to advancing the agri-food sector through cutting-edge biotechnology. The new complex aims to foster agricultural innovation, create jobs, and support eco-friendly practices as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a “Viksit Bharat.”

Speaking to an audience of scientists, industry leaders, and stakeholders, Dr. Singh emphasized the government’s commitment to science and technology as transformative drivers for India’s economic and environmental goals. He referenced recent initiatives, notably the newly launched BioE3 policy, which prioritizes biotechnology to boost economic growth, employment, and environmental sustainability. “Biotechnology and synthetic production will not only transform agriculture but redefine India’s role in global scientific advancements,” Dr. Singh remarked.

Dr. Singh highlighted that India is one of the first nations with an exclusive biotechnology policy. The policy, he noted, supports India’s transition from traditional manufacturing to sustainable, synthetic bioproduction, further propelling the nation from its former “fragile five” status to a top five global economic powerhouse.

The BRIC-NABI institute, formed through the merger of the National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI) and the Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB), is designed to bridge the gap between research and commercialization, with a focus on high-yield, disease-resistant crops, biofertilizers, and biopesticides. This approach aligns with the government’s ambition to double farmers’ incomes while promoting eco-friendly practices and diversifying income avenues for farmers.

One notable feature of the new institute is the BioNest Incubation Centre—a collaborative space for industry partnerships, public-private initiatives, and startup incubation. The BioNest center supports local youth, women, and farmers in agriculture, food, and bioprocessing, aiming to accelerate agri-tech innovations and bring them to market. “BioNEST strives to drive inclusive economic growth, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ vision and advancing India’s self-reliance journey,” Dr. Singh said, encouraging private-sector investments to unlock potential in these fields and create sustainable employment for India’s young workforce.

Looking ahead, Dr. Singh announced the Biomanufacturing Workshop 1.0, set for December 2024, which will explore applications of biomanufacturing in agriculture, food, pharmaceuticals, and energy, offering researchers and industry professionals insight into techniques for sustainable production. The workshop aligns with India’s BioE3 policy and reflects a commitment to eco-friendly, innovation-led industrial growth.

Addressing the issue of brain drain, Dr. Singh urged young Indian scientists to pursue research and entrepreneurship within India, citing the country’s expanding scientific resources and competitive ecosystem. He underscored the importance of retaining talent to build a resilient nation with a strong global presence in science and innovation.

The BRIC-NABI institute marks a pivotal advancement in India’s goal for a science-driven economy. Through initiatives like BioE3 and BioNest, India not only aims to lead in knowledge but also to become a global incubator of innovation, poised to contribute to sustainable growth on an international scale. Dr. Singh’s message was clear: India’s progress in biomanufacturing is vital to building a resilient, forward-looking nation.