On November 10, 2024, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the ministry of science and technology, with cabinet approval, established the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC).
The new council subsumed fourteen autonomous institutions (AIs) to drive advancements in the biotech sector.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, minister of state (independent charge) for science and technology, played a key role in this strategic transformation, reinforcing India’s commitment to research and innovation in biotechnology.
BRIC’s First Foundation Day Celebration
BRIC celebrated its first Foundation Day on November 9–10, 2024, at the National Institute of Immunology (NII), a BRIC-affiliated institution.
Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, delivered the Foundation Day lecture. Dr. Anand Deshpande, founder of Persistent Systems, attended as the special guest.
The event attracted leaders in biotechnology, including Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of DBT and Director-General of BRIC, along with directors, officials from DBT and BIRAC, researchers, and students from iBRIC institutions.
Fostering Entrepreneurship
On November 9, 2024, BRIC hosted a competition, ‘Race from Science to Entrepreneurship’ (RaSE), to promote entrepreneurial skills among young researchers.
The competition challenged students from iBRIC+ institutes to explore the complexities of commercializing biosciences, particularly in alignment with the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy.
Students from all fifteen iBRIC+ institutions showcased their ideas, reflecting the rich potential of India’s biotech talent pool.
Strengthening Bonds and Team Spirit
DBT Establishes BRIC also encourages harmony, physical fitness, and teamwork. BRIC organized a sports meet on November 10, 2024, bringing its members together.
The event featured cricket, badminton, table tennis, and chess, fostering camaraderie and a sense of community within the DBT-iBRIC+ family.
BRIC’s Vision
Dr. Rajesh Gokhale highlighted BRIC’s significant role in enhancing the impact and value of biotechnology research and innovation in India.
Dr. Gokhale mentioned, “BRIC is pivotal in bringing research synergy, transforming and amplifying the power of Science, Technology, and Innovation”.
Amitabh Kant praised BRIC’s mission, adding that it would be a landmark institution for India’s future in biotechnology.
As reported by pib.gov.in, DBT establishes BRIC to elevate India’s biotechnology sector. Through collaboration, research excellence, and innovative programs, BRIC sets a foundation for ground-breaking scientific progress and entrepreneurial growth.
