By fostering collaborations between 65+ institutions in the NER and leading research centers across India, the initiative has strengthened the region’s biotech ecosystem.
The North East Region (NER) of India is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Home to unique flora and fauna, indigenous knowledge systems, and a vibrant cultural heritage, the region has long been recognized for its ecological significance. However, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, NER’s potential is being transformed from a biodiversity hotspot into a thriving bioeconomy hub, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for sustainable growth and innovation.
Biotechnology: A Game Changer for North East India
Biotechnology is reshaping the economic and social fabric of NER by harnessing its rich bio-resources for research, entrepreneurship, and community development. With a strategic focus on research-driven innovation, skill development, and value-added bio-based products, the Modi government has ensured that biotechnology is at the forefront of North East India’s transformation.
Key Initiatives Driving the Bioeconomy Revolution
R&D Programme: Bridging Knowledge and Innovation
Launched in 2010-11, the Twinning R&D Programme for NER has catalyzed over 650 research projects, benefiting approximately 450 researchers and 2000 young scholars. By fostering collaborations between 65+ institutions in the NER and leading research centers across India, the initiative has strengthened the region’s biotech ecosystem. These partnerships have paved the way for high-impact research in medicinal plants, sustainable agriculture, and bio-based industries.
Establishment of Biotech Hubs: Expanding Research Infrastructure
Since 2011, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has established 126 Biotech Hubs across NER. These hubs serve as centers of excellence, providing state-of-the-art infrastructure, technical training, and research facilities. In the second phase, 54 hubs have been further supported for focused research and training, ensuring that local challenges are addressed with homegrown solutions.
Biotechnology Labs in Senior Secondary Schools (BLiSS): Nurturing Young Minds
To instill a scientific temperament from an early age, the BLiSS program, initiated in 2014, has set up biotechnology labs in senior secondary schools across the NER. By providing students with access to modern biological sciences laboratories, this initiative is fostering the next generation of bio-scientists and entrepreneurs.
Visiting Research Professorship (VRP) Programme: Leveraging Expertise
Started in 2015, the VRP Programme has brought distinguished scientists to North East India’s universities and research institutions. These experts have played a crucial role in mentoring young researchers, introducing cutting-edge biotechnological advancements, and strengthening academic excellence.
Empowering Farmers and Entrepreneurs: Bioeconomy in Action
Agricultural Biotechnology: Enhancing Crop Resilience and Productivity
Biotechnology has led to the development of bacterial blight-resistant rice varieties such as ‘Patkai’, introduced by Assam Agricultural University. This innovation ensures better yields and higher resilience to diseases, directly benefiting farmers by reducing losses and enhancing profitability.
Medicinal Plant Cultivation: Turning Tradition into Enterprise
With 64.1 acres dedicated to captive cultivation of high-value medicinal plants like Curcuma caesia and lemongrass, the NER is witnessing a bio-based agricultural revolution. Training programs have benefited 649 farmers and entrepreneurs, empowering them to produce and market essential oils, herbal extracts, and nutraceuticals.
Citrus Research: Revitalizing Indigenous Horticulture
To strengthen citrus farming, DBT-supported research at the Institute of Horticulture Technology, Assam, has led to the development of virus-free rootstocks for Khasi mandarin and sweet orange. This initiative has not only improved citrus productivity but also ensured disease-free propagation of native fruit varieties.
Biotech in Animal Husbandry: Digital Tools for Veterinary Success
The launch of the Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES), a mobile application available on Google Play Store, is a significant step towards improving veterinary health in NER. This AI-driven tool assists farmers and veterinarians in diagnosing and managing pig diseases, ensuring healthier livestock and increased productivity.
Human Health and Biotech Innovation: The NER Approach
Genomics-Driven Research in Human Health & Disease
Since 2016, DBT-NIBMG has been providing training in genomics-based biomedical research. This initiative equips scientists, research students, and clinicians in the NER with expertise in molecular genetics, enabling them to contribute to advanced healthcare solutions.
Chemical Ecology Programme: Interdisciplinary Training for Young Scientists
The DBT-funded Chemical Ecology Programme has facilitated collaborations between institutions in the NER and Bangalore-based research centers. Through hands-on training, young scientists are being equipped with interdisciplinary skills, positioning them to lead in the emerging bioeconomy sector.
Transforming Biodiversity into Bio-Wealth
- Development of Blight-Resistant Rice: ‘Patkai’ rice variety ensures food security and resilience for farmers.
- Breakthrough in Animal Health: A rapid detection test for brucellosis enhances livestock disease management.
- Value-Added Products from Wild Apple: Farmers in Assam and Meghalaya are now producing jams, pickles, and juices from Docynia indica, creating new revenue streams.
- Essential Oil Industry: A distillation unit in Arunachal Pradesh supports farmers in commercializing medicinal plant extracts.
A Sustainable Future for North East India
The Modi government’s vision for North East India extends beyond conservation; it is about leveraging biotechnology for inclusive development. By investing in research, infrastructure, and skill development, the region is being transformed into a dynamic hub of bio-innovation and entrepreneurship. As biodiversity meets biotechnology, North East India is no longer just a region of natural abundance—it is becoming a beacon of sustainable growth, self-reliance, and global competitiveness.
With continued support and policy-driven momentum, North East India’s bioeconomy is poised to become a cornerstone of ‘Viksit Bharat’—a developed India by 2047.
