Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh recently conducted a comprehensive review of research facilities at the CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (CSIR-IMTECH) in Chandigarh, where he inspected the Microbe Repository and received updates on ongoing projects. His visit underscored the growing importance of microbial technology in biotechnology and its role in shaping the next industrial revolution.
During the review, Dr. Singh praised the strides India has made in the biotech sector, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the transformative New BioE3 Policy, which emphasizes biomanufacturing and biofoundries. He highlighted the astonishing growth of India’s bioeconomy, which has expanded from $10 billion in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024, with projections reaching $300 billion by 2030. A major success story within this journey has been the rise of biotech startups, which have surged from just 50 in 2014 to nearly 9,000 today, positioning India as a global biotech innovation hub.
A key achievement in India’s scientific landscape has been the development of Nafithromycin, the country’s first indigenous antibiotic designed to combat antibiotic-resistant infections. Dr. Singh emphasized India’s growing prominence in bio-manufacturing, ranking third in the Asia-Pacific region and 12th globally, with institutions like CSIR-IMTECH playing a pivotal role in advancing microbial genetics, infectious disease research, fermentation technology, and bioinformatics.
CSIR-IMTECH is a premier institute in microbial biotechnology, housing the prestigious Microbial Type Culture Collection and Gene Bank (MTCC), a national repository of over 14,000 microbial strains. This repository serves as a vital resource for researchers, industries, and regulatory bodies such as the IPC, BIS, and NBA, ensuring the authenticated supply of microbial cultures for various applications in healthcare, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and environmental sciences.
Virtually connecting with the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT) in Palampur, Dr. Singh inaugurated several new facilities and engaged in discussions on high-altitude plant adaptation in response to climate change. He participated in the EMBO Workshop on High Elevation Plant Adaptation in a Changing Climate (HEPACC) and the Industry, Farmer & Academia (IFA) Meet, reinforcing the government’s commitment to integrating scientific research with economic empowerment and sustainable agricultural practices.
One of the highlights of the event was the virtual inauguration of a new Tulip Garden in Palampur, a breakthrough that extends tulip cultivation beyond its traditional season, potentially benefiting other regions. Dr. Singh commended the CSIR-IHBT scientists for their efforts in expanding agricultural possibilities and supporting innovative agri-startups.
The CSIR-IHBT is leading several national missions aimed at transforming Indian agriculture and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods. Under the CSIR Floriculture Mission, floriculture has expanded to 1,000 hectares, directly benefiting 3,800 farmers across Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh, generating an impressive ₹80 crore in revenue. Other initiatives include the Aroma Mission, Millet Mission, Immunity Mission, Waste to Wealth Mission, Phenome India-CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase, and CSIR Precision Agriculture Mission.
Dr. Singh also inaugurated cutting-edge facilities at CSIR-IHBT, including an Autonomous Greenhouse, Heeng Seed Production Centre, Heeng QPM Facility, Ornamental Bulb Processing Facility, and Phyto-Analytical Facility. Additionally, he laid the foundation stone for the Phyto Factory Facility and dedicated a newly constructed Cement Concrete Road from Floriculture Junction to Chandpur R&D Farm.
Emphasizing the potential of Himalayan biodiversity, Dr. Singh highlighted the importance of integrating scientific advancements, industry collaborations, and supportive government policies to drive economic prosperity. His visit reflected a broader vision—leveraging India’s rich natural resources and scientific expertise to empower farmers, boost innovation, and solidify India’s position as a leader in the global biotech and agricultural sectors.
