Context: Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas and blessed with lush biodiversity, India’s North East Region (NER) is a land of hidden treasures. Its vibrant landscapes, rich culture, and vast pool of resources offer immense potential for innovation.

• With the transformative power of biotechnology, the NER is not only preserving its natural heritage but also scripting a new chapter of growth and sustainability.

A Green Revolution with Biotechnology

• Biotechnology is driving a green revolution in the region, empowering farmers to cultivate medicinal plants, developing resilient crop varieties, and supporting bio-entrepreneurs.

• The Department of Biotechnology’s (DBT) North Eastern Programme has been central to this transformation. Since 2010, DBT has allocated 10% of its annual budget to NER-specific programmes, focusing on harnessing bioresources, promoting biotech education, and creating employment through bio-entrepreneurship.

Key Programmes Under the North Eastern Initiative

1) Twinning R&D Programme for NER

• Initiated in 2010-2011, this programme enhances biotechnology capacity through collaboration between NER institutions and leading institutes across India.

• It has fostered partnerships among 65+ institutions, supporting nearly 650 R&D projects and benefiting around 450 researchers and 2000 young students.

2) Establishment of Biotech Hubs

• Since 2011, DBT has established 126 Biotech Hubs across NER, equipping universities, colleges, and institutions with infrastructure for biotechnology education and research.

• In Phase-II, 54 hubs were further supported for focused research and training on local issues.

3) Biotechnology Labs in Senior Secondary Schools (BLiSS)

• Launched in 2014, the BLiSS programme introduces school students to biological sciences by providing access to well-equipped biotechnology laboratories.

4) Visiting Research Professorship (VRP) Programme

• Initiated in 2015, the VRP programme leverages the expertise of eminent scientists to advance biotechnology and life sciences in NER institutions.

5) Specialized Training Programmes

• Chemical Ecology Programme: Initiated in 2015, this programme trains Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows in chemical ecology through collaborations with Bengaluru-based institutes.

• Genomics-Driven Research: Launched in 2016 by DBT-NIBMG, Kaylani, this programme trains NER scientists, research students, and clinicians in molecular and genetic analyses for biomedical research.

Major Achievements

The North Eastern Programme has yielded several significant outcomes:

• Bacterial Blight Resistant Rice Variety “Patkai”: Developed by Assam Agricultural University (AAU), this variety has been notified by the Central Variety Release Committee (CVRC).

• Lateral Flow Assay for Brucellosis Detection: A chimeric protein-based Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) was standardized for rapid detection of anti-brucella antibodies in livestock, demonstrating high sensitivity compared to the iELISA test.

• Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES): A mobile app developed for diagnosing pig diseases, helping veterinarians, farmers, and swine industry professionals identify and treat conditions efficiently. The app is available on the Google Play Store.

Challenges in Implementing Biotechnology in North East

• Limited Infrastructure: Insufficient biotech labs, R&D facilities, and industrial support.

• Funding Constraints: High costs of biotech research and commercial-scale production.

• Skilled Workforce Shortage: Lack of trained personnel in cutting-edge biotech fields.

• Climate Sensitivity: Erratic weather & environmental factors affect agricultural biotechnology projects.

• Connectivity Issues: Remote location hinders market access and tech adoption.

Road Ahead for Biotech Growth in North East

• Strengthen Research Infrastructure – Establish advanced biotech parks, incubators, and R&D centers.

• Enhance Skill Development – Train local researchers, students, and farmers in biotech applications.

• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Encourage industry investment in biotech-based startups and innovation.

• Focus on Sustainable Biotech – Promote eco-friendly bio-based industries and conservation projects.

• Leverage Digital Platforms – Utilize AI and data-driven solutions for biotech advancements.

Conclusion

• By harnessing the region’s rich biodiversity and empowering local communities through education, research, and entrepreneurship, DBT’s initiatives are preserving cultural and ecological heritage while driving sustainable economic growth.

• As North East India evolves into a hub of bio-innovation, it exemplifies how science and tradition can coexist to shape a prosperous and sustainable future.