The fourth edition of Global Bio-India 2024 has successfully concluded, highlighting India’s growing prowess in the biotech sector.
Held from September 12th to 14th at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, the event was organized by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology, and its Public Sector Undertaking, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
The conference, inaugurated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, attracted a large representation of national and international biotechnology stakeholders.
This year’s theme, “Biotech Innovation and Bio-manufacturing,” underscored the transformative potential of these fields on the global bioeconomy.
One of the event’s highlights was the unveiling of 11 new products by Indian biotech startups, showcasing the country’s emerging talent in biosciences.
These innovations are poised to make significant impacts across various sectors, reflecting the dynamic growth of India’s biotech ecosystem.
The valedictory session saw the exchange of Letters of Intent between BIRAC and international partners, including the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and IPE Global, for co-funding partnerships.
The conference also recognized outstanding contributions with several awards:
- BIRAC Innovators Awards
- Best Startup Exhibitor Awards
- Best Incubator Exhibitor Awards
- BioE3 Competition Awards
In addition, the event marked the launch of new Calls for Proposals under the prestigious i4 (Innovation for Industry) and PACE (Promoting Academic Collaboration and Entrepreneurship) programs.
Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor of Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, and Former Director of IIT-Delhi, was the Guest of Honor.
He highlighted the need for organizational models akin to BIRAC for emerging technologies like nanotechnology and quantum technology and stressed the importance of supporting deep tech startups led by PhDs and academic faculty.
Prof. Rao also paid tribute to the late Dr. M.K. Bhan, a visionary who played a pivotal role in shaping India’s biotech sector.
Dr. Rajesh S Gokhale, Secretary, DBT, Dr. Alka Sharma, Senior Adviser, Scientist ‘H’, DBT, Dr. G.S. Krishnan, President, ABLE, Dr. Jitendra Kumar, MD, BIRAC, and Ms. Shilpy Kochhar, Head of Business Development & Communications, BIRAC, expressed their gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners during the closing session.
Global Bio-India 2024 has successfully showcased India’s potential in the biotech sector, setting the stage for future advancements in biotech innovation and bio-manufacturing.
