The Minister also laid the foundation for a dedicated GMP facility to support pre-commercial production of biologics and cell-based therapies, including CAR-T therapy. Speaking on National Science Day, Dr Singh highlighted India’s growing bioeconomy, noting the rise from around 50 biotech start-ups in 2014 to over 11,000 today, and projected the sector to reach a $300 billion economy with the BioE3 Policy supporting sustainable, innovation-driven growth.
Addressing scientists, students, and industry representatives, Dr Singh emphasized India’s emergence as a global biotechnology hub, thanks to consistent policy support under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He pointed out that the country’s bioeconomy has expanded sixteen-fold over the past decade, growing from $10 billion to $166 billion, with further expansion targeted under BioE3 Policy.
The new recombinant cell facility at BRIC-RGCB houses engineered cells and advanced screening systems to accelerate target-specific drug discovery. The infrastructure will serve academia, industry, and healthcare innovators nationwide, providing critical support for research in cancer biology, non-communicable diseases, and preventive healthcare, including HPV vaccination efforts.
Innovative GMP Facility and Industry Collaboration
The forthcoming GMP facility will bridge laboratory research and industrial-scale production, operating on a “pay-and-use” model to support biotech industries. Dr Singh emphasized the role of collaboration between research institutions, private sector players, and emerging fields like nuclear medicine and marine biotechnology, encouraging integration of scientific innovation with national missions.
During the event, the Minister also released the book “Quantum Physics: One Hundred Magical Years” by Prof. V.P.N. Nampoori, highlighting the convergence of fundamental science and applied research in India’s innovation ecosystem.
Fostering Research, Innovation, and Public Health
Dr Singh encouraged young researchers to leverage the growing innovation ecosystem and assured continued government support for entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary research, and translational science. The inauguration reflects India’s commitment to harnessing biotechnology for economic growth, public health advancement, and sustainable development.