Context:
BioSaarthi Mentorship Initiative for Biotech Startups was unveiled.
BioSaarthi Initiative:
- A 6-month program fostering mentor-mentee relationships to guide emerging biotech entrepreneurs.
- Launched by – Ministry of Science and Technology
- Objective – Promotes structured engagements and strengthens collaboration between industry and academia.
- Engages international mentors, including overseas Indian diaspora experts.
India’s Bioeconomy Status (2024):
- Economic value expanded to $165.7 billion in 2024, up from $10 billion in 2014 (16-fold growth).
- GDP Contribution – Accounts for 4.3% of India’s nominal GDP.
- Sector-wise Contributions –
- Bioindustrial Sector- Largest contributor (47%).
- Followed by BioPharma, BioServices, and BioAgri.
- Regional Input –
- South Zone – Largest contributor (45%).
- Followed by West, North, and East Zones.
- State-Level Leaders – Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat
Related Initiatives:
- BioE3Policy (2024): Focused on advancing biotechnology for the economy, environment, and employment.
- Bio-RIDE (2024): Emphasizes research, innovation, and entrepreneurship development in biotechnology.
- National Biopharma Mission (2017): Dedicated to advancing India’s biopharmaceutical capabilities.
- National Mission on Bioeconomy (2016): Early initiative promoting bioeconomy growth.
- National Bioenergy Programme
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
According to India’s National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels?
1. Cassava
2. Damaged wheat grains
3. Groundnut seeds
4. Horse gram
5. Rotten potatoes
6. Sugar beet
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2020 Prelims]
(a) 1, 2, 5 and 6 only
(b) 1, 3, 4 and 6 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
Answer: (d)