In News:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have signed an agreement to conduct biotechnology experiments on the upcoming Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
• Timeline for BAS:
  • The BAS is expected to be operational from 2028-2035, with the initial module launches slated for 2028 and full expansion by 2035.
  • It will be located at an altitude of 400 km above Earth and will support 15–20-day missions in space.

Focus Areas of Research

• Health Impact:
  • Weightlessness & Muscle Health: Studying the effects of zero-gravity on muscle loss during space missions.
  • Radiation Effects: Investigating how space radiation impacts astronaut health over long durations.
• Bio-Manufacturing:
  • Algae Studies: Exploring algae for potential use in nutrient-rich, long-lasting food sources and biofuel production.
  • Food Preservation: Identifying algae varieties that can help preserve food for longer periods in space.
• Integration with Gaganyaan Mission:
  • Experiments may also be conducted during uncrewed test flights for the Gaganyaan mission (India’s first crewed mission to space, scheduled for 2025-2026).

BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy

• Objective: The BioE3 policy aims to boost bio-manufacturing in India, which is projected to contribute $300 billion to the Indian economy by 2030.
• Key Focus Areas:
  • High-Value Bio-Based Products: Promotes the development of bio-based chemicals, biopolymers, enzymes, and smart proteins.
  • Climate-Resilient Agriculture & Carbon Capture: Aims to strengthen agricultural practices to withstand climate change and promote carbon capture technologies.
  • Healthcare & Nutrition: Focuses on advancements in biotherapeutics, functional foods, and regenerative medicine.
  • Marine & Space Biotechnology: Encourages research in space and marine biotechnology for new applications.
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Supports R&D-driven entrepreneurship through the establishment of bio-manufacturing hubs, bio-AI centers, and biofoundries.
  • Employment Growth: Aims to create skilled jobs in the growing bioeconomy, promoting green growth and sustainable industries.

Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) Overview

• Structure: The station will consist of:
  • Command Module
  • Habitat Module
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Docking Ports
• Objective: To support long-term research in space life sciences and bio-manufacturing, with a focus on human health, food sustainability, and biotechnology innovations.