Skip to main content
Back to Current Affairs
Science & TechnologySource: Press Information Bureau

Achievements of Department of Biotechnology - Year End Review 2025

Thursday, 18 December 2025
Read Original Article

Key Points

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has made significant achievements in 2025, with India's biotechnology sector poised to reach a bio-economy worth USD 300 billion by 2030. This matters for UPSC aspirants as it relates to GS Paper 3, focusing on Science & Technology. Last Updated: 2025-12-18

Key Facts About Achievements of Department of Biotechnology

  • Biotechnology Growth: Bio-economy surged from USD 10 billion in 2014 to over USD 165.7 billion in 2024.
  • Publications & Patents: Reports on publications and patents to be released in March 2026.
  • Healthcare Innovations: Early-stage vaccine candidates for Chikungunya, Coronavirus, and Monkeypox developed.
  • Vaccine Research Infrastructure: Established at BRIC-THSTI with a BSL-3 facility.
  • Emerging Frontiers: 123 projects funded to address scientific challenges.
  • North Eastern Region: Empowered Institutional Biosafety Committees with monitoring via IBKP portal.
  • Space Biomanufacturing: Microgravity research conducted to enhance astronaut nutrition.
  • Centre-State BioE3 Cells: Initiated to boost biotechnology innovations.

India's Biotechnology Growth and Global Standing

The biotechnology sector in India is a key driver of economic growth, aligning with national goals of innovation and self-reliance. With a projected bio-economy of USD 300 billion by 2030, India ranks 12th globally and 3rd in the Asia-Pacific for biotechnology. This growth is supported by international collaborations and a robust public-private partnership framework, positioning India as a leader in vaccine manufacturing.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

  • BioE3 Policy: Promotes sustainable bioeconomy through six thematic sectors.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthened to support biotechnology sector growth.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 3: Science & Technology - Developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.
  • Prelims Angle: Questions on India's global ranking in biotechnology, key projects, and vaccine development initiatives.
  • Mains Angle: Analytical themes on the role of biotechnology in economic growth and public health.
  • Essay Paper: Topics on innovation and technology in India's development.

FAQ Section

  • What is the Department of Biotechnology? The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is a government department in India responsible for promoting and regulating biotechnology development and innovation.
  • Why is biotechnology important? Biotechnology is crucial for economic growth, healthcare advancements, and sustainable development, with India projected to achieve a bio-economy worth USD 300 billion by 2030.
  • What are the key features of DBT's achievements in 2025? Key features include vaccine development, international collaborations, and the establishment of research infrastructure like the BSL-3 facility at BRIC-THSTI.

Detailed Coverage

  • Biotechnology Growth: Bio-economy surged from USD 10 billion in 2014 to over USD 165.7 billion in 2024.
  • Publications & Patents: Reports on publications and patents to be released in March 2026.
  • Healthcare Innovations: Early-stage vaccine candidates for Chikungunya, Coronavirus, and Monkeypox developed.
  • Vaccine Research Infrastructure: Established at BRIC-THSTI with a BSL-3 facility.
  • Emerging Frontiers: 123 projects funded to address scientific challenges.
  • North Eastern Region: Empowered Institutional Biosafety Committees with monitoring via IBKP portal.
  • Space Biomanufacturing: Microgravity research conducted to enhance astronaut nutrition.
  • Centre-State BioE3 Cells: Initiated to boost biotechnology innovations.
  • International Collaborations: Established with the UK (FEMTECH) and Switzerland (One Health).
  • BioE3 Policy: Promotes sustainable bioeconomy through six thematic sectors.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthened to support biotechnology sector growth.
  • Training Initiatives: 744 human resources trained in biotechnology.
  • New Projects: 3516 new projects sanctioned to foster innovation.
  • India's Ranking: 12th in the world and 3rd in Asia-Pacific for biotechnology.
  • Vaccine Manufacturing: India is the largest vaccine manufacturer globally.
  • Projected Sector Value: USD 300 billion by 2030.
Science & Technology

Practice Questions

Test your understanding of this article

Question 1 of 50 / 5 answered
1

In light of the advancements in microgravity research for space biomanufacturing, which of the following best describes the implications for future space missions?