In a bid to address global health challenges and bolster India’s standing in the field of biotechnology, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, launched a pioneering initiative – the ‘i3c BRIC-RCB PhD Programme’ in Biosciences.
During the launch event held in New Delhi, Dr. Jitendra Singh announced the enrollment of 1000 Ph.D. students over the next five years, aiming to foster innovation in the critical healthcare sector. Emphasizing the program’s significance, he outlined its core principles of ideation, immersion, innovation, and collaboration.
‘This program will enable Indian students to embark on world-class research in fascinating and diverse fields of biotechnology,’ stated Dr. Jitendra Singh, aligning it with Prime Minister’s vision of leveraging science and technology for the welfare of society.
The program offers a unique curriculum and hands-on training on advanced facilities to research scholars. Notably, an ‘Immersion Fellowship’ supported by Grand Challenges India will provide participants with firsthand experience to tackle challenges through collaborative research in DBT institutions.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the establishment of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) as a pivotal move towards integrating multi-disciplinary research and maximizing biotech impact in the country. The BRIC, created by subsuming 14 autonomous research institutions, aims to synergize research and innovation efforts across various institutions.
Furthermore, the Minister unveiled the DBT-Handbook on Bio-design for Med-Tech Innovations and licensed medical technologies developed by DBT-Bio-design fellows to startups. The DBT-Biodesign Program, nurturing med-tech innovators, operates through six Biodesign Centers across the country, fostering indigenous med-tech innovations.
‘The technologies developed by the DBT-Biodesign fellows will provide Made-in-India solutions for our unmet national needs,’ emphasized Dr. Jitendra Singh, stressing the program’s role in fostering an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).
Highlighting India’s robust growth in the bioeconomy, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored its surge by 29% in 2022, reaching a substantial value of around US$140 billion. India’s ascent to the 40th rank out of 132 economies in the Global Innovation Index was also noted, indicating its growing prowess in innovation.
The Minister concluded by expressing optimism about the growth potential of the medical devices sector under the Make-In-India initiative, emphasizing India’s commitment to self-sufficiency and innovation in healthcare.
The launch of the i3c BRIC-RCB PhD Programme marks a significant step towards fostering a vibrant research ecosystem and addressing global health challenges through collaborative innovation.
