Why in NEWS
The Department of Science & Technology (DST), along with BIRAC and iBRIC+, marked World Bioproduct Day 2025 to spotlight Equity, Environment, and Economy as key themes for inclusive biotechnology innovation.
India reiterated its ambition to build a USD 300 billion bioeconomy by 2030 through the BioE3 framework.
Key Concepts and Definitions
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Bioproducts | Products like fuels, plastics, and chemicals derived from renewable biomass |
| Bioeconomy | Economic activity powered by biotechnology, biomass, and sustainable solutions |
| iBRIC+ | Indian Bioeconomy Research & Innovation Consortium Plus – for regional biotech ecosystems |
| BioE3 | Policy framework focused on Biotechnology for Economy, Environment & Employment |
| Biofoundries | Facilities that automate biological engineering for rapid product development |
What are Bioproducts?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Examples | Biofuels, bioplastics, cosmetics, medicines |
| Feedstocks | Corn, algae, sugarcane, flax, potatoes, agricultural waste |
| Production Methods | Fermentation, enzymatic conversion, pyrolysis, chemical synthesis |
| Sustainability Impact | Reduce fossil fuel use, lower pollution, support circular economy |
| Biodegradability | Varies by product (e.g., bio-based paint may not be biodegradable) |
What is the BioE3 Policy?
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Launch | 2024 by the Department of Biotechnology |
| Goal | Promote biomanufacturing for sustainable growth, jobs, and environment |
| Approach | Establish Biofoundries, Bio-AI hubs, and promote circular bioeconomy |
| Employment Focus | Develop biotech workforce in Tier II and III cities using local biomass |
| Ethical Emphasis | Align with global biosafety, regulation, and environmental goals |
Core Themes of the BioE3 Policy
| Theme | Objective |
|---|---|
| Bio-based Chemicals & Enzymes | Replace fossil-based industrial inputs |
| Functional Foods & Smart Proteins | Ensure food security and nutrition with sustainability |
| Precision Biotherapeutics | Develop advanced, targeted treatments |
| Climate-Resilient Agriculture | Enable agriculture to adapt to climate impacts |
| Carbon Capture & Utilization | Reuse carbon through biotechnological innovation |
| Marine & Space Biotech | Explore new frontiers for industrial biotech applications |
In a Nutshell
Memory Code – “BEAST 3C”
Bioeconomy
Equity
AI & Biomanufacturing
Sustainability
Tier-II growth
Carbon capture
Climate-ready agriculture
Circular innovation
Prelims Practice Questions
- Which organization launched World Bioproduct Day?
A) BIRAC
B) World Bioeconomy Forum
C) iBRIC
D) UNDP - Which of the following is not a bioproduct?
A) Biogas
B) Polyethylene
C) Ethanol
D) Bioplastic - The BioE3 policy primarily aims to promote:
A) Fossil fuel expansion
B) Conventional agriculture
C) High-performance biomanufacturing
D) Cryptocurrency adoption in biotech
Mains Questions
- Examine the role of BioE3 policy in accelerating India’s transition to a sustainable bioeconomy. (GS Paper 3 – Environment/Economy)
- How can bioproducts help India meet its climate and employment targets simultaneously? (GS Paper 3 – Environment)
Answers to Prelims Questions
| Question | Correct Answer | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | B | World Bioproduct Day was initiated by the World Bioeconomy Forum |
| 2 | B | Polyethylene is fossil-based; others are derived from biomass |
| 3 | C | BioE3 focuses on high-performance, ethical, and green biomanufacturing |
