In News:

The BioE3 Policy outlines guidelines and principles for enabling mechanisms for ‘Fostering High Performance Biomanufacturing’ in the country across diverse sectors. 

Key Highlights:

Primary Objective:

• Set a framework for the adoption of advanced technologies and innovative research to promote biomanufacturing in India.
• Focus on enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and quality in biomanufacturing.

Alignment with National Goals:

• Supports India’s vision of Green Growth (Union Budget 2023-24) and Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), promoting sustainability.
• Aligns with India’s goal of achieving a Net-Zero carbon economy.
• Supports the Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry initiative announced in the Interim Budget 2024-25.

Key Objectives:

• Revolutionize biomanufacturing for better product quality and environmental sustainability.
• Accelerate the development and commercialization of bio-based, high-value products.
• Foster high-performance biomanufacturing across diverse sectors.

Achievements of Indian Bioeconomy (2014-2023):

• Contribution to GDP: Bioeconomy contributes 4.25% to India’s GDP of $3.55 trillion (as of Dec 2023).
• Growth of Bioeconomy: From $10 billion in 2014 to $151 billion in 2023, surpassing 2025 target.
• Increase in Biotech Startups: From 50 startups in 2014 to 8,531 startups in 2023.

Implementation Strategy:

• Establish BioEnablers including Bio-AI Intelligence Hubs, Biofoundries, and Biomanufacturing Hubs across India.
• Bio-AI Intelligence Hubs will support research and innovation using data-driven approaches and AI to develop technologies for bio-based products.
• Biofoundries and Biomanufacturing Hubs will provide infrastructure to scale up bio-based technology for commercial applications.

Focus on Human Resource Development:

• Bio-Enablers will offer training and internships to build a skilled workforce with interdisciplinary and technical skills required for biomanufacturing.

Sectoral Focus Areas:

• Based on consultations, six thematic sectors of national importance have been identified for implementation:
  • Bio-based chemicals and enzymes
  • Functional foods and smart proteins
  • Precision biotherapeutics
  • Climate-resilient agriculture
  • Carbon capture and utilization
  • Futuristic marine and space research
• Sectoral Expert Committees are addressing challenges and gaps identified for each of these sectors.

Government Support:

• The DBT-BIRAC (Department of Biotechnology and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) has called for proposals to establish Biofoundries and Biomanufacturing Hubs in academia and industry.
• These hubs will support innovation and commercialization of biomanufacturing technologies.

In News:

The Indian government recently approved the Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment (Bioe3) Policy, which prioritizes the production of "smart proteins". This initiative aligns with broader national goals of achieving a sustainable, circular bioeconomy and a Net Zero carbon economy.

What Are Smart Proteins?

Smart proteins are alternative proteins derived from unconventional sources such as:

• Algae
• Fungi
• Insects
• Fermentation processes
• Lab-grown cells

This category also includes plant-based proteins, designed to replicate the taste and nutritional value of animal products without the need for livestock farming.

Environmental Benefits

The production of smart proteins offers significant environmental advantages:

• Water Use: 72-99% less water compared to conventional meat.
• Land Use: 47-99% less land required.
• Water Pollution: 51-91% reduction in pollution.
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions: 30-90% fewer emissions.

Health and Safety

With rising incomes, India's protein consumption has increased, from 9.7% of calories in 1991 to 11% in 2021. Smart proteins:

• Enhance food safety by reducing the risk of zoonotic diseases.
• Foster ethical consumption and align with traditional Indian dietary preferences.

Objectives of the BioE3 Policy

The Bioe3 Policy aims to:

• Foster high-performance biomanufacturing.
• Promote sustainable growth and innovation in biotechnology.
• Support the transition towards a Net Zero carbon economy.

By emphasizing the development of smart proteins, the Bioe3 Policy represents a strategic move towards a more sustainable and resilient food system in India.