Odisha Govt Plans Several Steps To Tap Marine Resources Through Biotechnology, Says Minister

New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: Odisha government plans to launch various initiatives to tap the state’s immense marine resources through biotechnology.

This was stated by Krushna Chandra Patra, Minister of Science and Technology in his keynote address at Global Bio-India (GBI) 2024 on Saturday. On the third day of the GBI, a technical session titled “Tapping the Blue Economy” was held focusing on India’s maritime resources.

Underscoring the vast potential of Odisha in the blue economy landscape, the minister highlighted how the state can lead in biotechnology sector and largely contribute to India’s bioeconomy.

“Odisha boasts a vast coastline of 480 kilometer. The state government is developing a roadmap to enhance marine biotechnology. The government is taking diverse steps to explore how modern technology and skills can be applied to foster economic development through marine resources,” said Patra.

The Minister further noted that Odisha has immense potential in the Blue Economy. To broaden its scope, there is a need to encourage startups working in this area through increased research and support, he added.

“The government is focusing on areas like marine biodiversity & conservation, aquaculture & fisheries, marine bioproducts, environmental sustainability etc. These areas have immense potential in augmenting India’s Bioeconomy,” he said.

Dr Mrutyunjay Suar, Chairman BCKIC, delivered the opening remarks in the session in presence of Dr Jitendra Kumar, Managing Director, BIRAC.

The Odisha Pavilion in GBI 2024 highlighted Odisha’s biotechnology prospects and scope for investment in the state. The innovative biotech startups, from the state featured at the pavilion, showcased their cutting-edge technologies & solutions. These innovative startups got an exposure to the futuristic trends & a scope for industry connect in the sector.

Global Bio-India 2024, organised by Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science and Technology, began on September 12 and concluded on September 14. The event showcased the unique biological resources and immense potential of the country, where Odisha participated actively.