The Central government has initiated Phase-III of the Biomedical Research Career Programme with a budget of Rs 1,500 crore. This program aims to enhance fellowships, research grants, and the application of discoveries in practical healthcare. The funding comprises Rs 1,000 crore from the Department of Biotechnology and Rs 500 crore from the Wellcome Trust based in London.
Union MoS Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that the program seeks to develop a competitive biomedical research workforce encompassing various experts. These include basic scientists, clinician-researchers, public health experts, science communicators, and research managers. The goal is to foster interdisciplinary and collaborative research opportunities.
Dr. Singh emphasized that biotechnology is poised to drive India’s future economic growth, scientific progress, and global competitiveness. He pointed out that India’s bioeconomy has grown significantly, expanding from $10 billion in 2014 to over $195 billion in 2025. Projections suggest it could reach $300 billion by 2030. India currently boasts around 12,000 biotechnology startups and is recognized as a prominent vaccine manufacturer globally.
The program’s launch involved interactions with researchers who have benefited from the initiative, along with presentations showcasing its scientific accomplishments and long-term effects. Dr. Singh stressed the importance of sustained financial partnerships from philanthropic institutions and industry to translate research into practical technologies, diagnostics, and affordable healthcare solutions.
