Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, recently announced the remarkable growth of India’s ‘Bio-Economy,’ soaring from $10 billion to $80 billion in the past eight years. Speaking virtually at the pre-event summit, “Biotechnology: The Path of Innovation & Wellness for Viksit Bharat,” attended by Shri. Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that biotechnology is poised to become the primary pillar for health treatment.
The summit, a precursor to the 10th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit scheduled for January 2024, sets the stage for India’s ambitious goals in the biotech sector. Dr. Mandaviya outlined the Indian Biotech Industry’s target to reach $150 billion by 2025 and an even more ambitious $300 billion by 2030. Currently ranking among the top 12 global biotech destinations, India holds a 3% share in the global biotechnology industry.
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the transformative role of biotechnology, foreseeing its application in solving complex challenges across various domains, including agriculture, environment, and industrial production. Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he envisioned India becoming one of the top ten nations in the global biotechnology ecosystem.
Underscoring the sector’s pivotal role, Dr. Mandaviya credited India’s prowess in biotechnology showcased during the pandemic, particularly in vaccine production. He pointed to the National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2020-25 as a key platform for strengthening skill development, resource allocation, and innovation, fostering a robust ecosystem for knowledge sharing.
Commending the collaborative efforts of startups, industries, researchers, and academicians nationwide, Dr. Mandaviya acknowledged Gujarat’s two-decade-long dedicated focus on biotechnology. He praised the state for being the first to establish the Biotech Mission and Biotech Park, initiatives initiated during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure as Chief Minister.
Shri. Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat’s Chief Minister, expressed his commitment to making biotechnology a cornerstone of the state’s future. Referring to the sector as one of hope, he anticipated substantial global contributions with its rapid growth. The Chief Minister inaugurated the ‘Start-Up Product Launch’ as a testament to Gujarat’s forward-looking approach.
The event, was attended by key figures such as Shri Raj Kumar, Chief Secretary of Gujarat, Ms. Mona Khandhar, Principal Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology, Government of Gujarat, and Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, celebrated the significant strides made by India in the field of biotechnology.
