Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in Pune
The Facility exemplifies how technological advancements in bioplastics can lead
to economic growth: Dr Jitendra Singh
India’s Bioeconomy grew more than $150 billion in 2023; expected to achieve
$300 billion by 2030: the Minister
Making
yet another stride towards making India a global leader in economy and a
frontline player in ensuring greener and cleaner planet, Union Minister of
State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (I/C)
for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space,
Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr Jitendra Singh today inaugurated
India’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in at Jejuri in Pune from
New Delhi today. The facility has been built by Praj Industries.
Addressing the audience, Dr Jitendra Singh said, “This
‘First-of-its-kind Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers in India’ is a
pioneering effort in developing indigenously integrated technology for the
production of Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic. This marks a pivotal
development for India’s commitment to sustainable solutions. This demonstrates
India’s resolve to transition from fossil-based plastics to eco-friendly
alternatives, crucial for addressing the global plastic pollution crisis.”
Speaking about India’s advancement in the field of
science and technology, he said, “India has emerged as a highly alluring
destination on a global scale, propelled by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's
visionary endeavour to establish the country as “Atmanirbhar”. Our Bioeconomy
has grown more than $150 billion in 2023, and is expected to achieve $300
billion by 2030.”
The emphasis on Green Growth in the Union Budget
(2023-2024); Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to make India a ‘Net
Zero’ carbon economy and ‘Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE)’ launched by the
PM in October 2022. This will also enable dual goals of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’
and ‘Make-in India’ with a foundational focus on biosafety, ethics and
inclusive growth. He emphasised that the Union has approved the BioE3
(Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy of DBT. The
BioE3 Policy is an important step forward towards sustainable growth in the
backdrop of climate change, depleting non-renewable resources and unsustainable
waste generation.
Dr Jitendra Singh further said, “India now ranks 12th in
the world in biotech and 3rd in Asia-Pacific. We are the largest vaccine
manufacturer and the 3rd largest Startup ecosystem,” adding, the Biotech
ecosystem in the country is emerging at a rapid pace with the setting up of 95
bio incubators and increasing numbers of Biotech Startups. The Biotech Startups
have experienced remarkable growth, increasing from just about 50 in 2014 to
over 8,500 in 2023. The rise of Biotech Startups is pivotal for our future
economy. These efforts place India at the forefront of the global bioplastics
movement, showing the world how biotechnology can contribute to a cleaner, more
sustainable future.
Speaking about the partnerships between industry, academia, and government, he said, it is crucial for translating innovative ideas into real-world solutions and fostering innovation through research and development. This facility symbolises a new chapter for India’s bioeconomy. It showcases our ability to lead in technological innovation and offers a sustainable pathway to reducing Environmental impact. He concluded by saying, "It is time for broader synergy among all professions to achieve the “Amrit Kaal” goals over the next 25 years for advancements in the biotechnology sector which underscores India’s potential as a global player in the field.