BRIC Third Foundation Day Highlights India's Biotechnology Growth
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh announced at BRIC's third Foundation Day that India's bioeconomy has expanded dramatically from approximately USD 10 billion to over USD 195 billion since the current government took office. The biotechnology startup ecosystem has seen exceptional growth, increasing from around 50-60 startups to more than 11,000, with several demonstrating global potential. Dr Singh emphasized India's potential to lead the next biotechnology-driven industrial revolution, which he described as likely to be driven by biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and genomics.
Institutional Integration and International Collaboration
The BRIC model represents an integrated approach where 13 premier biotechnology institutions across 11 cities function as a decentralized national network while preserving their individual identities and autonomy. This structure has reduced procedural delays associated with multiple directorates and approvals while creating enhanced opportunities for scientific collaboration. BRIC signed a Letter of Intent with the UK's Centre for Process Innovation to strengthen India-UK collaboration in biomanufacturing and support the development of biofoundries. Biofoundry hubs are already established in Mohali, Hyderabad, Pune, and Thiruvananthapuram.
Research Funding and Training Initiatives
The Wellcome Trust announced a significant grant of up to ₹21.7 crore for a five-year immersion training programme that will benefit more than 250 iBRIC+ PhD scholars. The i3C PhD programme has already benefited nearly 200 students, enabling them to immerse themselves in research, innovate, and collaborate through placements in health and agriculture sectors. The Genomics Centre of Excellence has attracted interest from medical institutions including AIIMS, supporting the shift towards precision medicine.
Awards and Recognition
The iBRIC+ Spotlight Scientist of the Year–2026 awards were presented to Dr Sunil Laxman of BRIC-inStem, Dr Rashna Bhandari of BRIC-CDFD, and Prof. Bhabatosh Das, Professor at BRIC-THSTI. Winners of the Festival of Sports were also felicitated during the event.
Government Support and Future Vision
Dr Singh highlighted the government's efforts to open more avenues for private-sector participation in science and research, drawing on experience from reforms in the nuclear sector. He referenced the Research, Development and Innovation Fund, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, and BIRAC as components of the wider research and innovation landscape. The Prime Minister's Independence Day appeal to young people to explore biotechnology opportunities has generated sector-wide enthusiasm, complemented by outreach programs for school students and a proposed dedicated mentorship programme to encourage girls to pursue science.