Cabinet approves ‘Bio-RIDE’ scheme to support Research and Development in Biotechnology
The Cabinet of India has approved the Bio-RIDE scheme, a significant initiative aimed at enhancing research and development in biotechnology. Here are the detailed points regarding this new scheme:
Overview of the Bio-RIDE Scheme
Continuation and Merger: The Bio-RIDE scheme merges two existing umbrella schemes of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) into one comprehensive initiative, incorporating a new component focused on Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry.
Financial Outlay: The total proposed budget for the implementation of Bio-RIDE is ₹9,197 crore, covering the period from 2021-22 to 2025-26.
Key Components
The Bio-RIDE scheme consists of three main components:
1. Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D): Focuses on advancing research initiatives in
biotechnology
2. Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED): Aims to foster industrial growth and entrepreneurship
within the biotechnology sector
3. Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry: Introduces a new focus on sustainable manufacturing practices in
biotechnology.
Objectives and Goals
Fostering Innovation: The scheme aims to accelerate innovation by providing grants and incentives for cutting-edge research in areas such as synthetic biology, bio-pharmaceuticals, bioenergy, and bioplastics.
Promoting Bio-Entrepreneurship: It seeks to create a supportive ecosystem for startups through seed funding, incubation support, and mentorship.
Enhancing Collaboration: Bio-RIDE will facilitate partnerships between academic institutions, research organizations, and industry to enhance the commercialization of bio-based products.
Sustainable Practices: There is a strong emphasis on promoting environmentally sustainable biomanufacturing practices aligned with India’s green goals.
Extramural Funding Support: The scheme will provide extramural funding to research institutions, universities, and individual researchers across various fields including agriculture, healthcare, bioenergy, and environmental sustainability.
Human Resource Development: It includes initiatives for holistic development of students, young researchers, and scientists in biotechnology to build a skilled workforce capable of leveraging technological advancements.
Alignment with National Goals :
The Bio-RIDE scheme is part of India’s broader vision to establish a circular bioeconomy and contribute to climate change mitigation. It aligns with the “Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE)” initiative launched by the Prime Minister, promoting environmentally friendly solutions across various sectors.
The DBT’s ongoing efforts aim to position India as a global leader in biotechnology research and innovation, with aspirations of achieving a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030. The Bio-RIDE scheme is expected to play a crucial role in realizing the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047,” which focuses on comprehensive national development through advanced biotechnology solutions
