Odisha, known for its rich natural ecosystem, is poised to leverage its untapped resources, skilled manpower and leading academic and research institutions to build a thriving biotechnology sector
OdishaPlus Bureau
In a significant move towards fostering biotechnology advancements, the Odisha State Cabinet has approved the scheme ‘Development of Biotechnology,’ aiming to position Odisha as a knowledge-driven bio-economy.
The initiative, set to be implemented over five years (2025-26 to 2029-30), comes with a budgetary outlay of Rs 1113.50 Crore and comprises 17 sub-schemes focused on research, infrastructure and industry collaboration.
Odisha, known for its rich natural ecosystem, is poised to leverage its untapped resources, skilled manpower and leading academic and research institutions to build a thriving biotechnology sector. Recognizing this potential, the Industrial Policy Resolution 2022 designated Biotechnology as a thrust sector, requiring a skilled workforce, cutting-edge infrastructure and targeted incentives.
The Development of Biotechnology scheme aims to strengthen industry-academia collaboration, promote product commercialization, and enhance innovation across agriculture, medicine, industry, and environmental sectors. With the Odisha Biotechnology Policy 2024 already in place, the scheme will accelerate research breakthroughs while creating new opportunities for startups, incubators and investors.
The Development of Biotechnology scheme is designed to accelerate growth in Odisha’s biotechnology sector by fostering higher education, research and infrastructure development. It aims to establish a supportive ecosystem built on the 5Is framework – Innovation, Incubation, Investment, Income and Impact – creating opportunities for enterprises and industries.
The scheme also focuses on enhancing academic excellence, skill development and capacity-building programs aligned with industry needs.
Additionally, it seeks to facilitate product and process development, commercialization and the monetization of intellectual property to drive advancements in the sector. By leveraging biotechnology innovations, the initiative aspires to contribute to Odisha’s socio-economic progress, ensuring the state becomes a thriving hub for biotechnology research, application, and industrial growth.
With this ambitious scheme, the Odisha government aims to create a dynamic biotechnology sector that contributes significantly to the state’s economic development and scientific progress.
