National monitor in biotech draft

A National Biotechnology Regulatory Authority for clearing biotech products and a policy framework for stem cell research — these are t...

A National Biotechnology Regulatory Authority for clearing biotech products and a policy framework for stem cell research — these are the highlights of the Draft National Biotechnology Development Strategy released by Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal today.

The strategy proposes to exempt biotechnology industries from compulsory licensing and allow foreign direct investment up to 100 per cent on automatic route. It okays stem cell research for clinical use but is against generation of embryos for such research. The draft says priority should be given to research in molecular and cellular biology, neuroscience, molecular genetics, transplantation biology, genomics, proteomics, system biology and RNA interference.

The National Biotechnology Development Strategy proposes an annual turnover of $5 billion and creation of 1 million jobs by 2010. The strategy also looks at the setting up of a national task force to formulate model undergraduate and post-graduate curricula in life sciences and biotechnology and proposes enhanced exposure to hands-on training for students of MSc. Biotechnology through extended attachment in industry and CSIR Laboratories among other institutions. The number of DBT post-doctoral overseas fellowships will be increased to 200 per annum from the current 25.

Story continues below this ad

The Draft Strategy is open for public debate for six weeks after which suggestions will be incorporated and sent to the Cabinet for approval.

Sibal said the recommendations of the Swaminathan Committee for agri-biotech and the Mashelkar Committee for bio-pharma would be implemented and upto 30 per cent of biotechnology R&D budget would be spent through public-private partnership.