Assam Inks MoU With DBT To Advance High-Performance Biomanufacturing

GUWAHATI: Under the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy, the Government of Assam and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership, the first of its kind under the BioE3 framework, aims to develop a sustainable biotechnology ecosystem in Assam and promote high-performance biomanufacturing.

The MoU follows extensive consultations and high-level meetings between DBT and the Assam government. A key milestone in this process was the Centre-State Partnership Conclave, chaired by Union Minister of Science & Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh, where states were encouraged to collaborate with DBT and establish BioE3 Cells.

The Union Cabinet approved the BioE3 Policy on August 24, 2024, with the aim of making India a leader in bio-based innovations by focusing on sustainable biomanufacturing in areas like marine and space research, smart proteins, climate-resilient agriculture, and bio-based chemicals.

Under the agreement, DBT will provide guidance and facilitate collaborations, while the Assam government will establish a State BioE3 Cell and develop an Assam BioE3 Action Plan.

The MoU formalization took place at DBT headquarters in New Delhi, with the presence of dignitaries including Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale (Secretary, DBT), Dr. Ravi Kota (Chief Secretary, Assam), and Pallav Gopal Jha (Secretary, Department of Science, Technology & Climate Change, Assam).

Dr. Ravi Kota highlighted Assam’s proactive approach, noting that the Assam Cabinet has approved the BioE3 Action Plan and established a dedicated state-level BioE3 Cell.

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