PARLIAMENT OF INDIARAJYA SABHA
DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ONSCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
THREE HUNDRED NINTH REPORT
Demands for Grants (2018-19) of theDepartment of Biotechnology
(Demand No. 85)
(Presented to the Rajya Sabha on 13th March, 2018)(Laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on 13th March, 2018)
Rajya Sabha Secretariat, New DelhiMarch, 2018/Phalguna, 1939 (Saka)
309REPORT NO.
Website : http://rajyasabha.nic.inE-mail : [email protected]
Hindi version of this publication is also available
PARLIAMENT OF INDIARAJYA SABHA
DEPARTMENT-RELATED PARLIAMENTARY STANDING COMMITTEE ONSCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS
THREE HUNDRED NINTH REPORT
Demands for Grants (2018-19) of theDepartment of Biotechnology
(Demand No. 85)
(Presented to the Rajya Sabha on 13th March, 2018)(Laid on the Table of Lok Sabha on 13th March, 2018)
Rajya Sabha Secretariat, New DelhiMarch, 2018/Phalguna, 1939 (Saka)
CONTENTS
PAGES
1. COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE............................................................................ (i)-(ii)
2. INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................... (iii)
3. ACRONYMS............................................................................................................ (iv)
4. REPORT................................................................................................................ 1-34
5. RECOMMENATIONS/OBSERVATIONS— AT A GLANCE......................................................... 35-43
6. MINUTES.............................................................................................................. 45-51
(i)
COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE(2017-18)
(Constituted on 1st September, 2017)
1. Shri Anand Sharma — Chairman
RAJYA SABHA
2. Shri Prasanna Acharya
3. Shri S. R. Balasubramoniyan
4. Shrimati Renuka Chowdhury
5. Shri Rajkumar Dhoot
6. Shri C. P. Narayanan
7. Shri Parimal Nathwani
8. Shri Sharad Pawar
9. Dr. T. Subbarami Reddy
10. Shri Bhupender Yadav
LOK SABHA
11. Maulana Badruddin Ajmal
12. Shri Muzaffar Hussain Baig
13. Shri E. T. Mohammed Basheer
14. Shri Pankaj Chaudhary
15. Shri P. P. Chauhan
16. Kumari Sushmita Dev
17. Shri Ninong Ering
18. Shri Laxman Giluwa
19. Dr. K. Gopal
20 Shrimati Vasanthi M.
21. Shri Daddan Mishra
22. Shri Prabhubhai Nagarbhai Vasava
23. Shri Chirag Paswan
(ii)
24. Shri Shivaji A. Patil
25. Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar
26. Shrimati Sandhya Roy
27. Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh
28. Shri Nagendra Singh
29. Shri Vikram Usendi
130. Vacant
231. Vacant
SECRETARIAT
Shrimati Sunita Sekaran, Director
Shri T. N. Pandey, Director
Shri S. Rangarajan, Additional Director
Shri Mohd. Salamuddin, Additional Director
Shri Rajiv Saxena, Under Secretary
1 Shri Nagendra Kumar Pradhan ceased to be a member of the Committee w.e.f. 12th December, 2017.2 Shri Nana Patole ceased to be a member of the Committee consequent upon his resignation from the Lok Sabha w.e.f. 14th December, 2017
(iii)
INTRODUCTION
I, the Chairman of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science andTechnology, Environment and Forests, having been authorised by the Committee to present the Reporton its behalf, present this Three Hundred Ninth Report of the Committee. This Report deals with thedetailed Demands for Grants (2018-2019) of the Department of Biotechnology (Demand No. 85).
2. In the meeting of the Committee held on 13th February, 2018, the Secretary and other officers ofthe Department of Biotechnology gave an overview of the various activities of the Department and theMembers sought clarifications on various aspects of the performance of the Department to enable it toscrutinise the Demands for Grants.
3. The Committee expresses its thanks to the officers of the Department for replying to the clarificationssought by the Members and placing before it the required material to enable the Committee to scrutinisethe Demands for Grants of the Department of Biotechnology.
4. The Committee considered and adopted the Report in its meeting held on the 6th March, 2018.
NEW DELHI; ANAND SHARMA6 March, 2018 Chairman,Phalguna 15, 1939 (Saka) Department-related Parliamentary Standing
Committee on Science and Technology,Environment and Forests
Rajya Sabha.
ACRONYMS
BIBCOL : Bharat Immunologicals and Biologicals Corporation Limited
BIRAC : Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council
CDFD : Centre for DNA Fingerprinting & Diagnostics
CDRI : Central Drug Research Institute
CIAB : Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing
IBSD : Institute for Bioresource and Sustainable Development
ICAR : Indian Council of Agricultural Research
ICGEB : International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
ILS : Institute of Life Sciences
NBFGR : National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources
NBRC : National Brain Research Centre
NCCS : National Centre for Cell Sciences
NER : North Eastern Region
NII : National Institute of Immunology
NIPGR : National Institute for Plant Genome Research
R&D : Research and Development
SAM : Acute Malnutrition
(iv)
REPORT
INTRODUCTION
Mandate of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
1.1 The Department of Biotechnology was set up as an Independent Board in the year 1982, andthereafter became a full-fledged Department under Ministry of Science & Technology in 1986. Themandate of the Department is given below:
- To evolve policies and integrated programmes in biotechnology and ensure their implementationand monitoring.
- To identify specific programmes of Research and Development and manufacturing in biologicalsand biotechnology and oversee the initiation and pursuit of related research and manufacturingactivities.
- To identify, set up and support Centres of Excellence for Research and Development inbiotechnology and ensure proper dovetailing of their activities as per national priorities andobjectives.
- To act as a screening, advising and approving agent of the Government with regard to importand transfer of new technologies for the manufacture of biologicals, biotechnological productsand their intermediates.
- Evolve safety guidelines for biotechnology Research and Development and manufacturing inIndia.
- To act as the central agency for the import of genetically manipulated materials, culture, cells,specimens, tissues and biotech products including DNA and RNA of any type or size and forpromoting their production in the country.
- Serve as the inter-ministerial and interagency nodal point for all specific international bilateraland multilateral Research and Development collaborations and agreements in the area ofbiotechnology; act as the nodal point for all technology transfers in the area of biotechnology.
- Manufacture and ensure application of recombinant, cell-based and DNA vaccines, diagnosticsand other biotechnological products.
- To evolve programmes for Human Resource Development in the area of biotechnology.
- Serve as an administrative and implementing Department of agencies, commissions, boards,etc. specifically formed by the Government for fulfilling the national objectives in biotechnologyand also to serve as the nodal point for Bio-informatics including training and creation ofinfrastructure, collection, dissemination and exchange of information relating to biotechnology.
- Establishment of National Biotechnology Regulatory Authority
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- Matters relating to:
• International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi
• National Institute of Immunology (NII), New Delhi
• National Centre for Cell Sciences (NCCS), Pune
• Centre for DNA Fingerprinting & Diagnostics (CDFD), Hyderabad
• National Institute for Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), New Delhi
• National Brain Research Centre (NBRC), Manesar, Gurgaon
• Institute for Bioresource and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Imphal
• Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneshwar
• Translational Research in Health Science and Technology Institute, Faridabad
• Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Tiruvananthapuram
• UNESCO Regional Centre for Education, Training & Innovation in Biotechnology, Faridabad
• National Institute of Biomedical Genomics, Kolkata
• Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine, Bengaluru
• National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute Mohali, Punjab
• National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad
• Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB), Mohali
- Matters relating to:
• Bharat Immunologicals and Biologicals Corporation Limited (BIBCOL), Bulandshahar,Uttar Pradesh
• Indian Vaccine Corporation Limited
• Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), New Delhi
1.2 The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment& Forests considered the Demands for Grants 2018-19 of the Department of Biotechnology in itsmeeting held on the 13th February 2018.
2. FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF THE DEPARTMENT DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS:
2.1 The Budget Estimates & Revised Estimates and actual expenditure, year-wise, for theyear 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 of the Department of Biotechnology are asunder:
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(Rupees in crore)
Year Budget Revised Actual PercentageEstimates Estimates Expenditure Utilisation
2013-14 1485.00 1300.00 1289.50 99.19
2014-15 1500.00 1395.00 1344.35 96.36
2015-16 1625.14 1624.35 1554.27 95.68
2016-17 1820.00 1917.23 1895.50 98.86
2017-18 2222.11 2260.11 1705.97* 75.48
*As on 31st January, 2018
2.2 The Committee expresses its satisfaction over the funds utilisation capacity of the Departmentduring the last five years. Fund utilisation capacity of the Department is reflective of its financialprudence and due diligence while making optimal utilisation of the budgetary allocation.
3. BUDGET ALLOCATION FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2018-19
3.1 The following table showcases the budgetary allocation made in favour of the Department ofBiotechnology for the year 2018-19:-
(Rupees in crore)
Sl. No. Division of Schemes Amount
Scheme
1. Biotechnology Research & Development 1195.07
2. Industrial and Entrepreneurship Development 244.24
Non Scheme
3. AI & PSU 779.98
4. Secretariat 32.31
Others
5. North-Eastern Region 159.93
(i) Biotechnology Research & Development - `154.93 crore
(ii) Industrial and Entrepreneurship Development - `5.00 crore
TOTAL 2411.53
3.2 The Committee notes that the Department has been allocated a total amount of `2411.53 crore inBE 2018-19 which is `151.42 crore higher than the allocation of ` 2260.11 crore at RE stage in
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2017-18. The Department in response to the information sought by the Committee with regard to theAction Plan prepared by the Department for the year 2018-19 informed about the focus areas which areas under:-
• The Department would further strengthen the research and development programmes, reviewongoing and received proposals for financial support and further improve overall managementof projects by the application of ICT.
• In Agriculture Biotechnology Programme the emphasis will be on development of genomicsto breeding platform, development of network programme in pulses, development of networkprogramme in oil seeds, development of platform for gene driven technology for controllingwhite fly and support to new R&D project and continuing projects.
• Energy Biosciences program will be strengthened and 2G ethanol plants will be established attwo indentified sites. Further potential foreign collaborator for Biofuel challenge will be identified.Waste to Energy Projects will be commissioned. New calls will be invited on Synthetic &System Biology and demonstration proposals for initiating MSW and MLW technology invarious region of the country will be sanctioned. The Support for development of technologiesfor waste management and environment improvement will be continued. Evaluation of establishedBio-Toilets in NER region of India will be undertaken.
• In Medical Biotechnology program, the Department will encourage scientists from diversefields to come together to embark on multidisciplinary projects in the area of placental biology,cancer biology and other relevant diseases. A new consortium on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus(SLE) will be supported. The Department will establish an integrated R&D approach for thedevelopment of preventive, therapeutic and diagnostic tools for Neuro Disease Biology andBrain Bank Facility at NIMHANS. National Initiative on Glial Cell Research in Health andDisease Phase-II will be taken. The Department will consider the launch of grant call forEpidemiology of Infections and setting-up of National Accreditation Quality Laboratories forhigh quality laboratory services for surveillance of infections and will fund proposals in thearea of 'Repurposing of Drugs for Infectious Diseases' besides proposals received under theCompetitive Grant Scheme. Mapping of data needs for epidemiological preparedness for flavivirusvaccine trials in India will be undertaken. Clinical institutions will be engaged for long termcollaborative research basic and translational research projects.
• The Department will initiate new programme in following areas:
(i) Blue Skies Research - The programme would be driven by curiosity driven research.
(ii) Forest and Conservation Biotechnology in Protected Areas - This programme will addressresearch gaps in genomics and biotechnology to improve the growth and quality of foresttrees for conservation and sustainable use as well as a tool for mitigation of climatechange impact.
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• The Department will continue to support Human Resource Development Program and underInternational Collaboration support the ongoing collaboration and forge new joint researchprograms with partnering countries in emerging areas of biotechnology. Under Joint DBT-Heidelberg Program in Big Data Research, the Graduate program (PhD Phase) will be implementedduring the year.
• There will be a major emphasis on the implementation of the Mission Programs. The departmentwill ensure periodic monitoring and ensure efficient implementation of the mission programsand Action Points.
3.3 The Committee takes note of the Action Plan contemplated by the Department for the year2018-19 and hopes that the Department would utilise the increased budgetary allocation of`̀̀̀̀2411.53 crore in BE 2018-19 optimally and ensure that the targets/objectives set for the year2018-19 are fully achieved within the stipulated time frame.
3.4 The Committee is also of the opinion that timely completion/realisation of the targets/objectives will certainly help the Department to improve its performance both physically as wellas financially and also help in reducing the overhead costs resulting from the delayed progress.Thus, the Committee recommends the Department to strictly adhere to the time frame for thetargets/objectives set and keep a continuous vigil with the help of a robust internal monitoringmechanism in order to ensure that the fixed timelines are met and the budgetary supportprovided for the purpose is utilised judiciously and optimally.
3.5 Informing the Committee about the Mission Programmes, the Department of Biotechnology hassubmitted that it has initiated several Mission Programs based on the action plans developed on theRecommendation of Group of Secretaries to solve natural problems and benefiting the society byproviding solutions through biotechnological interventions. Following are the details of major MissionPrograms being implemented during the period:
INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA COLLABORATIVE MISSION FOR ACCELERATING DISCOVERY RESEARCHTO EARLY DEVELOPMENT FOR BIOPHARMACEUTICALS - "INNOVATE IN INDIA (I3)"
An Industry-Academia Collaborative Mission for Accelerating Early Development forBiopharmaceuticals; to be implemented by BIRAC, was approved by the Cabinet for implementation inMay 2017 with a total cost of `1500 crore (50% grant will be arranged through world bank loan). TheMission I3 is "Innovate in India" for Biopharma. It will create an ecosystem for innovative indigenousproduct development by Researchers, Startups and SMEs and make Indian Biotech Industry globallycompetitive. The Mission is a PAN India programme involving all stakeholders and BIRAC as a ProductDevelopment Partnership (PDP). The Mission is designed in a manner in which it addresses the keycomponents of the vision outlined in the National Missions-Make in India and Start up India and alsoaims to take forward the commitments made by DBT in the National Biotechnology DevelopmentStrategy. Following is the focus areas of the Mission:
1. Development of product leads that are at advanced stages of the product development lifecycleand relevant to the public health need by focusing on managed partnerships.
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2. Establish and strengthen shared infrastructure facilities and product discovery/validation andmanufacturing.
3. Develop human capital by providing specific trainings to address the critical skills gap amongnascent biotech companies across the product development value chain, including in businessplan development, and market penetration.
4. Creating and enhancing technology transfer and intellectual property management capacitiesand capabilities in public and private sector.
(i) Mission Innovation in Clean Energy:
Mission Innovation (MI) is a global initiative of 22 countries and the European Union to accelerateglobal clean energy innovation. MI was announced on 30th November, 2015 in Paris during COP-21.As part of the initiative, participating countries have committed to seek to double their government's cleanenergy research and development (R&D) investments over five years. The second Mission InnovationMinisterial (MI Ministerial) was held in Beijing China (in June 2016), where leaders of MI countriesannounced seven innovation challenges for advancement of clean energy technologies.
(ii) Swachh Bharat Mission on Waste to Energy:
The Department of Biotechnology through its programmes on Waste to Energy will Partner withMinistry of Urban Development and Swachh Bharat Mission to demonstrate technologies at Pilot Scalefor converting Municipal Solid and liquid waste to Energy. The Municipal Corporation and other privatesectors will be involved. These demo plants can be set up in cooperation with the Smart City Projects.Through competitive process Waste to Energy proposals have been identified for demonstration ofinnovative and viable processes over traditional methods like land filling and saving the environment fromadverse effects of global warming by minimizing the emissions of methane from landfill sites. Onedemonstration project and 5 R&D projects have been sanctioned during the year. Two demonstrationprojects are under consideration. It is expected that the successful technologies can then be transferredto Municipal Corporations for implementation to disposal off MSW more scientifically and environmentfriendly manner.
(iii) Reinventing the Toilets:
Demonstration of Bio-toilets in Schools of North East India: This programme is prepared based onintegration of proven technologies and known knowledge customized in easily takeaway module forschool children of North East region. So far 75 Units have been installed and operationalised.
(iv) Accelerated Growth with Inclusion and Equity: Creating a Startup Innovation Ecosystem:
Startup India is a flagship initiative of the Government of India, intended to build a strongeco-system for nurturing innovation and Startups in the country that will drive sustainable economicgrowth and generate large scale employment opportunities. The Government through this initiative aimsto empower Startups to grow through innovation and design. The Prime Minister of India formally
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launched this initiative on January 16, 2016. Following are the major achievements in BiotechnologySector under Startup India Action Plan:
• Presently 30 Bio-incubators have been setup across India with world class facilities.
• Department is supporting 3 Bio-clusters (NCR, Kalyani and Bengaluru) and approval of PuneBio-cluster is in advance stage.
• BIRAC has launched ACE Fund and SEED fund to provide capital assistance to start-ups andact as a bridge between promoters' investment and venture/angel investors. Seven incubatorshave been provided funding under the SEED Fund programme.
• BIRAC has setup two regional centers BIRAC Regional Innovation Centre (BRIC) at IKPHyderabad and BIRAC Regional Entrepreneurship Centres (BREC) at CCAMP Bengaluru.
• Bengaluru-Boston Biotech Gateway to India has been formed. Through this initiative, a rangeof institutes in Boston (Harvard/ MIT) and Bengaluru are able to connect and share ideas andmentor the entrepreneurs and young scientists especially in the areas of Genomics, ComputationalBiology, Drug Discovery and New Vaccines.
(v) Biotech-KISAN Farmer Centric Mission:
This programme aims to work with small and marginal farmers especially the women farmer forbetter agriculture productivity through scientific intervention and evolving best farming practices in theIndian context by linking available science and technology to the farm by first understanding the problemof the local farmer and provide solutions to those problems. During the financial year 2017-18, a Biotech-KISAN Hub has been established at Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization(HESCO), Dehradun to cover the agro-climatic zone of Western Himalayan Region. The Sub-Hubs havebeen created at Almora, Chakrata and Chamoli, which are connected to the Central Hub in Dehradun.Three Polyhouse facilities have been created in each of the three Sub-Hubs to promote protectedcultivation of improved varieties of vegetables sourced from GB Pant University of Agriculture andTechnology, Pantnagar and Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi for enhancing the production,quality and profitability to the marginal farmers. A mushroom production-cum-training centre has alsobeen established at Karbari village near Central Hub. Seven days training programme on promotion ofhorticulture crops and beekeeping have so far been organised at Sub-Hubs located at Chakrata, Chamoliand Almora.
3.6 The Secretary, Department of Biotechnology in the meeting of Committee held on 13th February,2018 also submitted before the Committee that an additional financial support of `1000.00 crore wouldbe required to implement the Mission Programmes and other inter-ministerial programmes of theDepartment.
3.7 The Committee while sharing the ambitious and inspiring targets/objectives envisaged bythe Department is of the considered view that the adequate financial support needs to be madeavailable by the Government for the realisation of these targets/objectives set by the Department.
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The Committee, therefore, is of the firm view that the request made by the Department ofBiotechnology for the additional amount of `̀̀̀̀1000.00 crore during the year 2018-19 is fullyjustified. The Committee, therefore, desires the Department to share its view with the concernedMinistry/Department of Government of India and impress upon them and seek the requisitebudgetary allocations at the RE stage for the successful implementation of its Mission Programmes.
3.8 The Committee also applauds the Department for establishment of a Biotech-KISAN FarmerCentric Mission at Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization (HESCO),Dehradun to cover the agro-climatic zone of Western Himalayan Region. The Committee furthertakes note that the proposals for establishment of five more Biotech-KISAN Hubs in five agro-climatic zones viz. Central Plain Zone, Lower Gangetic Plains Region, Southern Plateau and Hills,Eastern Himalayan Region and East Coast Plains and Hills have also been developed by theDepartment.
3.9 The Committee while taking note of the above mentioned proposals for establishing fivemore Biotech-KISAN Hubs hopes that the Department would work in tandem with the respectiveState Governments and the other stakeholders of these regions to establish these five Hubs andcompletes the task in a time bound manner. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to constitute a high level committee consisting members from the Department andthe respective State Governments to ensure that the deadlines fixed for the completion of thesehubs are strictly adhered to and zero tolerance policy be opted in the matter in order to maximisethe benefits of this programme for these regions.
4. CENTRAL SECTOR SCHEMES/PROJECTS
4.1 The Committee notes that during the 12th Five Year Plan the Department had a number of schemesfor promoting research and development, developing skilled human resources, creating infrastructure andnurturing entrepreneurship in the Biotechnology Sector. The major schemes were on Research andDevelopment, Human Resource Development, Bioinformatics, Biotechnology for Societal Development,Program for Promotion of Excellence & Innovation, Biotech Facilities, International Cooperation, PublicPrivate Partnership, Biotechnology Cluster and support for programme of North East Region. Subsequently,these schemes were merged and currently (FY 2016-2017 onwards) the major schemes are: "Researchand Development" and "Industrial and Entrepreneurship Development- Public Private Partnership". Thedetails of the Schemes are as under:-
Biotechnology Research & Development
4.2 The Committee notes that Biotechnology Research and Development Assistance is provided forHuman Resource Development, Bioinformatics, Biotech Facilities, Centre of Excellence and Inter-InstitutionalCentres, Research and Development including Research and Development projects under InternationalCollaboration and Societal Development. This also includes identified major National Missions.
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4.3 The following table shows the Budget Estimates, Revised Estimates allocations and actual expenditure,year-wise, for the year 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18 and allocation made for 2018-19 under the schemeBiotechnology Research & Development:-
(Rupees in crore)
Year Budget Estimates Revised Estimates Actual Expenditure
2015-16 620.00 609.00 545.85 (89.63%)
2016-17 920.00 1020.04 1012.64 (99.27%)
2017-18 1250.58 1252.42 850.11* (67.87%)
2018-19 1350.00 -- --
*As on 31.01.2018
4.4 The Committee notes that in BE 2017-18, budgetary allocation of `̀̀̀̀1250.58 crore was madeunder this head which was insignificantly increased to `̀̀̀̀ 1252.42 crore in RE 2017-18 of whichalso the Department could only manage to spend `̀̀̀̀ 850.11 crore i.e. 67.87% utilisation of thefunds allocated till the end of January, 2018 leaving `̀̀̀̀402.31 crore to be spent only in 59 days.
4.5 The Committee, thus, expresses its displeasure over the underutilisation of funds madeavailable to the Department under this head during the year 2017-18. The Committee feels thatthe financial performance of the Department under the head Biotechnology Research andDevelopment is not very encouraging to note. The Committee firmly believes that the R&Dactivities are in the core of all other activities and of the greatest importance for any technologicaladvancement to take place. Thus, under-utilisation of the budgetary allocation made for thepurpose is perturbing. The Committee is of the view that the Department should have alignedits budgetary allocation with the activities undertaken during this period and it should have beenensured that a constant vigil was taken while prioritising activities and funds utilisation thereon.The Committee, accordingly, recommends that the Department should accord due focus andrecognition to its R&D activities while making earnest efforts to utilise the budgetary allocationsso made fully and optimally.
5. RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
5.1 The Department has informed the Committee that during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 (till 6thFebruary, 2018), the Department has sanctioned 748 new proposals and supported 987 ongoing proposalsfor undertaking innovative research and development activities in the area of Biotechnology. This supporthas resulted in about 1200 publications, development of 65 technologies, filing of 38 patents and grantof 14 patents. The research projects each year in Basic, Discovery and Translational Research in theareas of Agriculture and allied areas including Animal Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Healthcare includingVaccine, Drugs, Medical Devices and Implants, Bio-engineering, Food and Nutrition, Environment andClean Energy and Industrial Biotechnology have been considered for support. It was also brought to the
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notice of the Committee that during the period (April, 2016 - February, 2018), 4325 proposals werereceived in PRC (excluding) North Eastern Region and 748 (17.29%) proposals have been funded so far.Based on these reviews the activities have been planned upto March, 2020.
5.2 The details of publications, patents and technologies generated (FY 2016-17 and 2017-18) are asbelow:
No of No of Patent Patent Granted Technologies TechnologiesPublication filed Developed Commercialized
1300 34 14 65 13
5.3 The Committee notes the work done and progress achieved by the Department during theperiod 2016-17 and 2017-18 (upto 6th February, 2018). The Committee is also happy to note thenumber of technologies, i.e. 65, developed during this period by the Department. The Committee,however, is little dismayed to note the numbers of technologies which could actually be put tocommercialisation. The Committee is at a loss to figure out the reasons due to which rest of thedeveloped technologies of the Department could not reach to the stage of commercialisation ifthey are well aligned with the technological requirements of the concerned industry and as perits requirement. The Committee is also of the view that limited availability of well structuredframework to facilitate and undertake technology transfer and commercialisation and poor linkagebetween the Department and the industry adding to the poor performance of the Department toput its developed technologies to commercialisation on a much greater scale. The Committee,therefore, recommends the Department to take necessary action in the matter and take onboard the concerned stakeholders as well while identifying its industry oriented research workso that the developed technologies are best suited and able to cater to the technologicalrequirements of the concerned industry. The Department should also come out with a forwardlinkage forum where the interface between the Department and the industry is further strengthenedwhich in turn would help the Department as well to keep pace with the latter's technologicalrequirements.
6. CROP BIOTECHNOLOGY
6.1 The Department has informed the Committee that the mandate of Agriculture Biotechnology programis knowledge generation, technology and product development for productivity gains, enhanced nutritionand ensuring quality, resistance to drought salinity, high temperature, resistance to pests and diseases,input use efficiency, climate resilience and biosafety. The nature and types of programs include productoriented basic research, translational R&D projects, national networks, autonomous institutions, grandchallenge program, centers of excellence, international collaboration, public-private partnership, etc. Ithas been informed that agriculture biotechnology programme deals with a wide range of economicallyimportant crops including rice, wheat, cotton, millets, oilseeds and pulses. Key focus and support areasare: (i) Nutritional quality & productivity of crops (ii) Climate resilient varietal development in crops(iii) Biotic stress (iv) trait discovery and marker assisted introgression (v) IT interface technology in
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agriculture (vi) Big data in agriculture (vii) Sustainable crop development (viii) establishment of technologyplatforms. Under major initiatives, during the period 2016-17 and 2017-18, the Department has supportednew projects on improving oil quality and productivity in Groundnut, genome wide association study inPhaseolus vulgaris - Colletotrichum lindemuthianum pathosystem, development of genetic stocks formaturity and growth habit genes in Soybean. Network programs were supported on double haploidplatform for accelerated maize breeding, hybrid development and enhanced genetic gains in South Asia,marker-assisted breeding and mapping of QTLs for drought tolerance in wheat, genomics-assistedintrogression and field evaluation of rice varieties with genes/QTLs for yield under drought, flood andsalt stress, characterization, race profiling and genetic analysis of wheat powdery mildew pathogen inIndia.
6.2 Network programmes on fiber quality traits of cotton, on rust resistance, on biotic and abioticstresses in wheat and quality in wheat and on intrigression of abiotic stress traits in rice have beeninitiated. 189 ongoing projects and 42 network projects have been supported. Major achievements of theDepartment include: A herbicide tolerant mutant of Nagina 22, (named as Robin) identified, mapped andcharacterised earlier is being used in marker assisted backcross breeding program to introgress herbicidetolerance in 10 varieties of rice viz. PB1121, PB 1509, Sahabhagidhan, Naveen, Pooja Swarna-Sub1, C051, Anna, CB 06803 and CB 08702. At Directorate of Wheat Research, Karnal, a project was initiatedfor improving biscuit making quality of wheat in North Western Plains using MAS. Prebred PBW373 andUP2425 lines developed by crossing Nap Hal as source of Glu-D1 double null during 1st phase of theproject were used for Glu-D1 donor as main activity.
6.3 Responding to the query of the Committee about the preparedness of the Department to addressthe issues of biotic and abiotic stresses and improving yield and quality traits of the existing cropsthrough its research activities, the Department has submitted that it is aware of the challenges posed bythe climate change which is the primary contributor to abiotic stresses in crop, evolution of the newpests and pathogens (biotic stresses). In addition, the Department is also focusing on yield and qualitytraits in crops. The Committee was also informed that the Department in order to target these issuesis supporting 56 ongoing projects through extra mural support; 7 projects are on nutritional quality, 19on yield improvement and 30 on biotic and abiotic stress.
6.4 The Committee appreciates the efforts being undertaken and progress achieved by theDepartment in the field of Crop Biotechnology during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18. The Committeeis hopeful that with its earnest efforts in this direction the Department would be able to fetchthe desired results. The Committee, however, feels that the institutional linkage between theDepartment and the agricultural universities along with ICAR further needs to be strengthened.The Committee is also of the view that the Department should collaborate with the Internationalinstitutes of repute working in these fields. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to forge partnerships with such institutes to further intensify its research activitiesin the field of agricultural biotechnology.
6.5 The Committee also notes that the Department has been supporting a research anddevelopment proposal for development of rust resistant variety in Brassica juncea and a proposal
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has also been supported for dissecting the molecular interface between the biotrophic pathogenSporisorium scitamineum and its host sugarcane. The Committee, however, feels that droughtresistance varieties of sugarcane, if made available, will ease out the problems, to a considerableextent, being faced by the sugarcane growers in the country due to lack of irrigation facilitiesand dependence on the vagaries of monsoon. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to also start its research and development activities in the direction of developingdrought resistance varieties of sugarcane in the country.
6.6 The Committee also enquired about the budgetary allocation and utilisation thereof in respect of 19projects continuing for the yield improvement during the last three years by the Department. TheDepartment in its written reply informed that the total allocation for these 19 projects is `37.33 croreand utilisation of budget is `22.22 crore during the last three years.
6.7 The Committee expresses its displeasure over the poor financial performance of theDepartment in terms of utilisation of the budgetary support made available in respect of abovementioned 19 yield improvement projects. It is disheartening and discouraging as well to notethat the Department though allocated `̀̀̀̀37.33 crore for the purpose, could only spend `̀̀̀̀22.22crore which is just 59.52 per cent utilisation of the total financial support. The Committee is ofthe considered view that the Department fails to attach the due importance to these projects andcould not take timely action to ensure that budgetary allocation is utilised fully and optimally.The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish the detailed reasons for thispoor utilisation of budgetary allocation.
7. ANIMAL PRODUCTION
7.1 The Committee notes that livestock production is becoming increasingly important to economicgrowth of the country and therefore application of biotechnological tools to enhance the productivity oflivestock sector is continued through R&D interventions supported by the Department. The programmeaims to provide R&D support for generation of new knowledge in the basic areas of livestock healthand production, to enhance production and productivity of livestock sector through biotechnologicalinterventions and development of newer and improved vaccines and diagnostics (heat stable, broadspectrum, longer immune response, better adjuvants, recombinant, less side effects and residues in milkand meat) for major diseases and also for emerging ones. The strategies employed are based onconventional and recombinant routes. Key focus area supported during the period have been animalproduction including animal nutrition, animal reproduction transgenics, cloning and knockout technology,genomics and genetic characterisation of animal genetic resources and animal vaccine and diagnostics.
7.2 Major actions taken and achievements of the Department include: Genetic diversity study of selectedcattle breeds was carried out and a total 7,77,962 SNPs were genotyped. Out of these SNPs 1000markers were identified having potential to differentiate various cattle breeds. A programme on genomesequencing of 5 indigenous cattle breeds has been initiated. Various types of nano-formulation weredeveloped and utilised as functional feed supplements for model animals to confirm their effect on healthand productivity. Supplementation of Se and Zn nano particles in the feed had beneficial effects on
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growth performance of animal. A novel non-invasive technique for the generation of transgenic rat modelwas developed by integrating transgene into the genome of the spermatogonial cells by testicular injectionof DNA.
7.3 The Committee is appreciative of the progress made by the Department in the field ofAnimal Production. The Committee, however, feels that the Department has a long way to goin this direction considering the fact that Indian livestock production system still operatessignificantly on the traditional knowledge. It is noteworthy that a large section of our livestockhas very dismal average productivity. The Committee is also of the considered view that todeliver the technological advancements to the targeted group, the Department needs to furtherstrengthen its linkage with the stakeholders. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to start a systemic designed outreach campaign to popularise biotechnology amonglivestock farmers.
7.4 The Committee also recommends the Department to come out with a strategy paper in thematter and prepare a roadmap to enhance the production and productivity of livestock in thecountry.
8. ANIMAL HEALTH (VACCINE & DIAGNOSTIC)
8.1 The Committee has been given to understand that the objective of this programme is to establishcollaborative research for development of new generation vaccines and diagnostics along with translationof existing candidate vaccines and diagnostics for field use around major animal disease of nationalimportance to make product affordable to small and marginal farmers. Translational research in the areaof animal health and projects on development of new generations vaccines and diagnostics have beensupported.
8.2 During the period a recombinant vaccine against Mycobacterium avium for goats, vaccine forcanine mammary tumor, Nano-Newcastle disease virus vaccine, recombinant antigen based diagnosticsand chimeric plant virus-like particle based vaccine for Infectious Bursal Disease Virus (IBDV) weredeveloped. Studies to develop dip-strips to detect acaricide resistant ticks, biosensors for detection ofpeste des petits ruminants (PPR), and economic diagnostics for surra have been done. Newcastle diseaseVirus Antibody Test Kit, NDV-Check was also developed through the project supported by the Department.A study was also done on status of veterinary biologicals in India and as a result a book has beenpublished on "Animal Biotechnology -Vaccines and Diagnostics- Markets and Investment Opportunities".During the period, 10 products were generated, 5 technologies were developed, 2 technologies werecommercialised, 1 patent was granted, 6 patents were applied and a total of 43 research papers have beenpublished.
8.3 Under Animal Biotechnology Career Enhancement Programme (ABCEP), 10 students were successfullytrained during the year. In addition the Post Doc's are involved in development of Ketocheck, a kit todetect subclinical ketosis in bovine and a lateral flow assay for simultaneous detection of antibodies tocanine parvo and rabies viruses under the ABCEP training program.
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8.4 The Committee notes that Brucella infects cows, buffalos, sheep, goats, deer, pigs, dogs and otheranimals and humans. The Secretary, Department of Biotechnology while making presentation before theCommittee in the meeting held on 13th February, 2018 informed that disease causes economic losses ofabout ` 28000.00 crore per year in veterinary sector.
8.5 The Committee expresses its deep concerns over the loss to exchequer on count of Brucellainfection. The Committee, therefore, is of the considered opinion that given the quantum ofeconomic losses to public exchequer due to infection in animals and humans, the problem throwsa huge challenge to the Department of Biotechnology expecting biotechnological solution to thisproblem. The Committee is happy to note that the Department is seized of the issue and in itsendeavour to address the issue making efforts in the form of implementation of 'Brucellosis FreeVillages Mission' on pilot scale in 50 villages of 10 States in phased manner. The Committee,however, feels that the Department needs to further intensify this Mission Programme and reachout to all the States where the cases of Brucella infections have been registered.
8.6 The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should make a database forthe purpose and roll out the implementation of 'Brucellosis Free Villages Mission' in rest of theStates as well in a time bound manner so as to not only provide the biotechnological solution tothe problem but also preventing the huge economic losses.
9. AQUACULTURE & MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY
9.1 The Department in its submission informed the Committee that Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnologyprogramme supports R&D and demonstration nature projects towards development of useful productsand process from the marine resources. The focus is on creation of specialised manpower in molecularbiology, infrastructure development and establishment of sophisticated R&D facilities for augmenting andexpediting research. The innovations supported are expected to benefit the aquatic and marine sectorsand help the scientific and research community in pursuing good research priorities by putting emphasison various sectors of Aquaculture and Marine Biotechnology addressing areas viz. feed and nutrition,health, environment and productivity increase through adoption of molecular tools and techniques, aspectson marine genomics and proteomics and extremophiles. Centres of excellence in theme based areas ofMarine Biotechnology and Aquaculture are being set up to boost up the sector in research and development.
9.2 During the period, support has been provided for developing effective diagnostics and prophylacticsolution for the aquaculture, for harnessing marine resources for aquaculture/human benefit, for developmentof standardised protocol for cell lines and its characterisation, Molecular screening, cell culture basedisolation and characterisation of finfish and shellfish viruses. The activities related to develop new feedfor enhancement of aquaculture productivity, sustainable and viable culture technology in new speciesof aquaculture have been supported. Proposals on genetic characterisation and improvement of labeorohita, L. calbasu fish species, Fish genomics, proteomics and transcriptomics have been also beensupported.
9.3 Programmes undertaken on actinobacteria could help in exploring new molecules for anti-HIV andimmune-modulatory substances for aquaculture. Project supported on fish genomics, proteomics and
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transcriptomics also created large number of genetic data. More than 50 fish cell lines have beendeveloped. 50 cell lines available at NBFGR, Lucknow were further improved and characterised forvarious toxicological and genetic characterisation work.
9.4 During the period, 35 manpower have trained, 30 research papers published, 04 patents filed and05 new technologies being utilised by the beneficiaries in Aquaculture & Marine Biotechnology area.
9.5 The Committee takes note of the work done/being done by the Department in the field ofAquaculture and Marine Biotechnology. However, it observes that health, feed and nutrition arethe major challenges to be addressed in marine and aquaculture sector. The Committee, therefore,recommends the Department to prepare a roadmap for developing requisite and efficient diagnosticsand take prophylactic measures to address these issues.
9.6 The Committee also recommends that the Department should strive hard to complete thetask of setting up Centres of excellence in theme based areas of Aquaculture and MarineBiotechnology to boost up the research and development activities in a time bound manner andensure that the time frame fixed for the purpose is strictly adhered to.
10. MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS
10.1 The Department has informed that the Translational Research on Products and Processes fromMedicinal and Aromatic Plants programme aims to support and encourage R&D activities on translationalresearch for products and processes development from medicinal and aromatic plants. The programmehas focus on taking forward the research leads to their logical conclusion through multi-disciplinaryapproach. Following are the major achievements during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 (till 6th February,2018):
• Agreement has been signed between ICGEB, New Delhi and Sun Pharma Ltd. for developingherbal drugs from Cissampleos pareira for dengue infection.
• Project to develop herbal drug from Butea monosperma for osteoporosis is planned to beinitiated at CDRI, Lucknow in collaboration with other institutions.
• Efforts have been undertaken to develop demonstration project on cultivation of priority aromacrops in Bundelkhand and North East Region.
• Vegetative propagation of Symplocos racemosa and seed propagation of Pterocarpus marsupiumand Saraca asoca have been standardised.
• Anti-dermetophytic herbal formulation using essential oil of Trachyspermum ammi (Ajwain)has been further improved. Significant results obtained against Microsporum canis andTrichophyton mentagrophytes suggests its utility in treating animal dermatophytes, commonin pets.
• Novel strategy has been formulated and implemented wherein natural chemotypes of Picrorhizakurrooa were used in ascertaining and validating the biosynthetic routes of both the picrosides
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(Picroside-I and II). Multi-location testing of genetically superior chemotypes (PKS-1 andPKS-5) of P. kurrooa has been undertaken in farmers' fields in high altitude areas.
10.2 The Secretary, Department of Biotechnology informed the Committee that the Department hasannounced a Phyto-Pharma Plant Mission with the financial support of `50.00 crore for the conservationand cultivation of endangered and threatened endemic medicinal plants of North East India and discoveryof new botanical drugs for unmet medical needs using the rich traditional ethno-botanical knowledge andbiodiversity of these States.
10.3 The Committee is of the considered view that medicinal and aromatic plants sector has theimmense potential and untapped opportunities. This sector in Committee's view can play asignificant role in helping diversified livelihood of poor and vulnerable section of our society. TheCommittee, thus, appreciates the move of the Department and hopes that the financial supportof `̀̀̀̀50.00 crore as earmarked for the Phyto-Pharma Plant Mission by the Department would beadequate to cater to the financial requirements of the Mission and the objectives/targets wouldbe achieved both in terms of physical and financial targets as envisaged by the Department.
11. INFECTIOUS DISEASES
11.1 The Committee has been informed by the Department that in order to address various issues andconcerns related to infectious diseases, the Department promotes research and development activity inthe area of infectious diseases specifically relevant for the country caused by various pathogenic agentslike bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi. The overall emphasis of the programs supported is to developpreventive, therapeutic and diagnostic tools for major infectious diseases like Hepatitis, Influenza,Chikungunya, Malaria, Leishmaniasis, HIV/AIDS, Dengue etc. The Committee notes that during theperiod 2016-17 and 2017-18, 30 new proposals have been sanctioned and 100 ongoing proposals havebeen reviewed. In the program Repurposing of Drugs - Antimicrobial Resistance, a Brain stormingsession was organised and launched a grant call, invited LoIs. Shortlisted 181 LoIs received under thecall based on scientific merit to 20 LoIs for receiving full application. In the Glue Grant program 06ongoing proposals were reviewed. Progress of THSTI-IAVI HIV Vaccine Design Program, Bio-space(Policy Centre for Biomedical Research) program and Advanced Technology Platform Centre has beenreviewed. The support to aforementioned programs resulted in 83 publications and filing of 08 patentapplications.
11.2 Responding to the concern of the Committee about the research work undertaken by the Departmentin the direction of vaccine development, research and product development for Japanese encephalitis,research programme on Dengue, Malaria, Chikungunya, etc, the Department informed that it has madeconcerted efforts in strengthening vaccine research and development since its inception in 1986-87through various endeavours. Currently major efforts are being implemented through the Vaccine GrandChallenge Programme (VGCP), Indo-US Vaccine Action Programme (VAP) and through the infectiousdisease biology program. The Department has supported R&D and product development activities fordevelopment of vaccines Japanese encephalitis, Dengue, Chikunguniya, Malaria etc.
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11.3 Progress of Major vaccine development projects is as under:
(i) Rotavirus Vaccine : Rotavirus Vaccine-(ROTAVAC®) is the first indigenous rotavirus vaccine,developed from an Indian strain-by an Indian company, and tested by Indian investigators inan effort led by the Indian government and supported by several national and global partners.The vaccine is manufactured in India by M/s Bharat Biotech International Limited, Hyderabadunder cGMP conditions and is a more affordable alternative to the rotavirus vaccines alreadyon the market. The vaccine is commercialized and based on the recommendations of NationalTechnical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI); ROTAVAC® has been introduced in theEPI programme of nine states.
(ii) Malaria Vaccines : International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB),New Delhi along with its translational research partner "Multi Vaccines Development Program"earlier known as "Malaria Vaccine Development Program" (a not-for-profit society formed andregistered under the Societies Registration Act) has advanced the development of blood-stagevaccines for P. falciparum and P. vivax malaria over the last decade. Funding support throughVaccine Grand Challenge Program of Department of Biotechnology, Biotechnology IndustryResearch Assistance Council (BIRAC) and multiple international agencies including MalariaVaccine Initiative (MVI), PATH and European Vaccine Initiative (EVI) has been received.
These recombinant protein-based adjuvanted Malaria vaccines advanced through the translationaldevelopment pathway of GMP production, pre-clinical immunogenicity testing, GLP complianttoxicity testing and Phase I trial after receiving all necessary regulatory approvals. All thesetranslational development activities have been done with Indian partners or collaborators orthrough an out-sourced model. Following vaccine candidates have undergone developmentbeyond lab bench:
(iii) JAIVAC-2 (Second generation P. falciparum vaccine candidate) : Presently the formulationsare undergoing Acute and Repeat Dose toxicity studies after approval from Review Committeeon Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) and Animal Ethics Committee.
(iv) PvDBPII ( P. vivax vaccine candidate) : Currently, the Phase I first-in-man clinical trial ofPvDBPII/GLA-SE in 36 healthy volunteers is underway after receiving necessary approvalsfrom RCGM, Drug Controller general India, CDL Kasauli and Ethics Committee.
(V) Dengue Vaccine : Department has been supporting the group at ICGEB, for the developmentof safe, efficacious and inexpensive tetravalent dengue vaccine. The encouraging outcomes inthe pre-clinical evaluation of DSV4 have enabled negotiating with a potential industrial partnerto advance DSV4 to the next stage of GMP production and toxicity evaluation.
11.4 The Committee appreciates the progress made by the Department in the direction of vaccinedevelopment of diseases like malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, etc. The Committee, however,did not find any mention of the efforts being undertaken by the Department in the direction ofChikungunya and as to what research and development activities have been undertaken by the
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Department during last few years. The Committee is of the considered view that our country hasbeen facing severe health issues with regard to Chikungunya infection and the disturbing figuresof the deaths registered during last few years on account of this disease in our country. TheCommittee feels that there is a need to control mosquito population which can to an extent bean attributed factor in spreading Chikungunya infection. The Committee also feels that theDepartment of Biotechnology can play an important role by finding biotechnological solutions tokeep mosquito population under control. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Departmentto intensify its R&D and product development activities for development of safe, efficacious andinexpensive Chikungunya vaccine.
12. MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH
12.1 Improvement of maternal health and reduction in child mortality has been stressed globally withWorld Health Organisation (WHO) adding them as two priority areas in the Millennium DevelopmentGoals. The Department realises the importance of this area and hence funds programs focusing onunderstanding the biology and development of affordable care for adverse pregnancy conditions, fetalgrowth & development and neonatal survival. It keeps pace with the latest global developments andincorporates critical components into the program like setting up of mandate for placental research anda well-directed project to decipher Preterm Biology. The focus of the programme is on pregnancycomplications such as preeclampsia, IUGR, recurrent miscarriages, developmental anomalies and diseasesof early childhood, developmental basis of adult onset of diseases.
12.2 During the year, in an inter-institutional program on Preterm Birth, a hospital-based cohort ofpregnant women at the Gurgaon Civil Hospital (GCH), Haryana, was established as part of this effort.2663 women were found to have pregnancy with period of gestation (POG) < 20 weeks on clinicalassessment and by the last menstrual period (LMP) after screening 8281 women attending the antenatalclinic at GCH. Out of these 1801 were confirmed to have a uterine pregnancy < 20 weeks POG onultrasound (USG) evaluation and were enrolled. The Department has partnered with Canadian Instituteof Health Research (CIHR), Canada for a Healthy Life Trajectories initiative (HeLTi) which is a multi-country effort where interventional cohorts will be established in India, China & South Africa. TheDepartment has signed a Program of Cooperation (PoC) with CIHR.
12.3 A Call for RFAs was made through which a team was selected which was sent to Geneva to attenda strengthening workshop for development of a proposal for linked international cohorts sharing theSOPs/protocols with other countries. A call for proposal under Maternal & Child health programme wasmade under the Joint Working Group with ICMR which endeavours to identify invention and early-stagedevelopment of new medical technologies, early translation, development of innovative tools & technologiesin the identified areas. This year a call for LOIs was made focusing on Preeclampsia, Neonatal Sepsis& Birth Asphyxia, against which 187 LoIs were received and out of which 41 have been shortlisted fordevelopment of full proposals. 22 new proposals have been funded in the area of complications inpregnancy such as preeclampsia, IUGR, recurrent miscarriages, effect of maternal nutritional status onpregnancy outcome, development of neonatal immune system.
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12.4 The Committee takes note of the efforts being made by the Department in the directionof maternal and child health. The Committee, however, is concerned to note that anemia,stunting, malnutrition and micronutrient malnutrition cases are widespread in the country andthe efforts being undertaken by the Department in the form of development of Iron fortified ricei.e. IFR-1 (fortified with iron) and IFR-2 (fortified with iron, folic acid) is nothing less than a dropin the ocean. The Committee is of the firm view that the Department has to come up with outof box and innovative biotechnological solutions to these problems. The Committee, therefore,recommends the Department to chalk out a roadmap in this direction and make earnest effortsin providing scientific solution to these health problems related to child health.
13. STEM CELL RESEARCH
13.1 The Committee notes that Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine has been identified as one of thethrust areas under biomedical research of the Department. The objective is to promote basic, early andlate translational research and formulation of regulatory framework for stem cell research in India.
13.2 The Committee in its endeavour to know about the ongoing stem cell research and progressachieved by the Department of Biotechnology in this direction has been given to understand that theDepartment is making efforts to promote this area in an integrated way by supporting both earlytranslational research (basic and pre-clinical research) and late translational research (clinical studies). Ithas been informed that stem cell research is an exciting field of life sciences. Stem cells are unspecialisedcells and have capability to renew themselves. Since this field is only more than a decade old, researchis being conducted to understand basic biology of these cells and also differentiation into differentlineages. Though stem cells are present during all stages of human life right from fertilisation to adulthood,however, their plasticity varies based on source of isolation. It has been brought to the notice of theCommittee that a road map was formulated and strategy was finalised by the Department in consultationwith national and international experts and a separate Task Force on Stem Cell research & RegenerativeMedicine was constituted in 2003. The Department sharing the major achievements in the area of stemcell submitted that clinical study on 10 patients with large segmental bone defects receiving tissueengineered bone transplant (custom made triphasic hydroxyapatite scaffolds loaded with mesenchymalstem cells) has been completed with no serious adverse effects and the "National Guidelines for StemCell Research, 2017" jointly formulated by Department of Biotechnology and the Indian Council ofMedical Research was released on 11th October, 2017. The Department also informed that one hundredper cent of the spinal cord injury cases showed improvement with respect to muscle strength, urinecontrol, spasticity, etc. Eighty-five per cent of cases of cerebral palsy showed improvements, out ofwhich 75% reported improvement in muscle tone and 50% in speech among other symptoms. Eighty-eight per cent of cases of other incurable neurological disorders such as autism, Retts Syndrome, giantaxonal neuropathy, etc., also showed improvement. No significant adverse events were noted. Theresults show that this treatment is safe, efficacious, and also improves the quality of life of children withincurable neurological disorders and injury.
13.3 The Department further stated that the overall outcomes of the clinical studies conducted so far forvarious diseases in human subjects using adult stem cells are debatable, hence, considered experimental
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as of today and none other than bone marrow transplantation or hematopoietic stem cells are acceptedas standard line of treatment that can cure disorders in human beings.
13.4 The Committee takes note of the information furnished by the Department on the researchwork going to understand the possible benefits of stem cells and observes that as of today, noneother than bone marrow transplantation or hematopoietic stem cells are accepted as standardline of treatment that can cure disorders in human beings. However, the Committee feels thatthe basic research work in this direction needs further push to explore the untapped potentialof stem cells in curing various disorders in human being in collaboration with the Institutes withstate-of-the-art facilities to facilitate such research works and recommends that adequate fundsbe earmarked for the purpose so that financial constrains would not hinder the research workin the country. The Committee is of the opinion that the advancements in biomedical researchin the field of stem cell would help in offering scientific solutions for treating a variety of diseasesuch as diabetes, cancer, cardiology, neurology, etc. The Committee, nonetheless, would also liketo caution the Department about the unscientific or unethical stem cell therapy that continuesto pose a threat. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to run an awarenessprogramme in the country under its CSR activities and reach out to the concerned stakeholdersapprising them about the rightful status of the stem cells and their applications on the basis ofscientific evidences. The Committee is of the considered opinion that this awareness programmeof the Department would help understanding the whole gamut of stem cell research in thecountry.
14. PUBLIC HEALTH, FOOD & NUTRITION
14.1 The Department has informed the Committee through its Background Note on consideration ofDetailed Demands for Grants 2018-19 that the Public Health Food and Nutrition programme of theDepartment focusses on addressal of micronutrient deficiencies, severe acute malnutrition, food fortification,probiotics for human health and well-being, food safety, molecular detection of GM traits in foods,development of low cost foods/supplements and utilisation of agricultural residues for value addedproducts and capacity building in Food Science and Nutrition Biology. During the period, a multi-centricPan India study on the prevalence and predictors of vitamin B12 deficiency has been initiated. Till datedata collection has been done in 4 states (Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Meghalaya) completed.Estimation of most of the biochemical parameters completed for 3 states (Telangana, Madhya Pradesh,Odisha) and 4th state (Meghalaya) is underway. Sample collection is ongoing in the 5th state (Gujarat).Biochemical estimations are underway. The technology for iron fortified rice premix has been developedalong with the commissioning of demonstration unit for production of Iron Fortified Rice premix" in IIT-Kharagpur. The available iron content in the iron fortified rice after employing different methods ofcooking was evaluated by National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad.
14.2 The Committee takes note of the multi-centric Pan India study on the prevalence andpredictors of vitamin B12 deficiency initiated by the Department and the progress achievedthereon. The Committee, however, is little perturbed to note that the Department failed to
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furnish the complete details like the total number of States identified for the study, timeschedule fixed for the completion of the task, physical targets envisaged, etc. in its BackgroundNote. The Committee is of the firm opinion that the Department should have been more cautiousand vigilant while submitting the information for the consideration of the Committee. TheCommittee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish a detailed note in the matter forthe consideration of the Committee.
15. BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR SOCIETAL DEVELOPMENT
15.1 Responding to the query of the Committee about the societal development through the advancementsof biotechnology, the Department has informed that that the main objectives of the programme is topromote the use of biotechnological processes and tools for the benefit of the disadvantaged section ofthe society comprising women, rural population, SC/ST and weaker section. The programme aims tocreate platform for self-employment generation among the target population through diffusion of provenand field-tested technologies demonstration, training and extension activities. Key focus area of programincludes Agriculture and Allied Sector, Health, Nutrition & Sanitation, Value Chain and Post-Harvest,Agripreneurship Development and Biodiversity conservation.
15.2 During the period, projects have been supported for the socio-economic upliftment of SC/STpopulation, rural and women through promotion of various biotechnological interventions viz. bio-fertilizers,bio-pesticides, sericulture, animal husbandry, aquaculture, mushroom cultivation, medicinal & aromaticplants, bee keeping, organic farming, horticulture, value addition to food processing and productdevelopment etc. These projects are aimed to benefit large number of beneficiaries for self-employmentand income generation.
15.3 The supported projects under this programme on bio-fertilizer production, vermicomposting, apiculture,poultry farming, integrated fish farming, artificial insemination, mushroom cultivation, goat rearing, fruitplant nurseries, sericulture, post-harvest processing technologies, hybrid seed production, use of qualityplanting materials helped in creation of self-employment among the target population for livelihoodgeneration through diffusion of proven and field-tested technologies demonstration, training and extensionactivities. Projects supported under women and child health care also benefitted the target communityfor improvement of their health status.
15.4 The Committee notes the work being done by the Department for the societal developmentwith the help of its biotechnological interventions. The Committee, however, feels that thesubmission of the Department lacks the factual data in terms of total numbers of self-employmentgeneration through diffusion of proven and field-tested technologies demonstration, training andextension activities, total number of beneficiaries, number of projects supported under womenand child health care, etc. to support its claim. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to furnish a complete data inter alia including number of beneficiaries under itsvarious activities undertaken during the last three years by the Department under theBiotechnology for Societal Programme.
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(B) INDUSTRIAL AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT
(i) Biotechnology Parks and Bio-Clusters
15.5 The Committee has been informed that the Department in partnership with State Governments/StateGovernment Organisations/Central Government Organisations has supported Biotechnology Parks andincubators in different parts of the country to facilitate biotech product development, entrepreneurship,research and innovation. Following is the details of Biotech parks operative and facilitating startups andentrepreneurs:
(i) Uttar Pradesh: Biotech Park, Lucknow
(ii) Assam: Guwahati Biotech Park
(iii) Kerala: Biotechnology Incubation Centre, Cochin
(iv) TICEL, Chennai
(v) Biotechnology Incubation Centre, Hyderabad
(vi) Bangalore Bioinnovation Centre, Bangalore
15.6 It has been informed that the Department has supported 3 Bio-clusters at NCR, Bangalore andKalyani to connect the discovery science and take it towards accelerated technology and productdevelopment. Facilities for multidisciplinary sciences, engineering, medicine and agriculture includingadvanced technology platforms are co-located with biotech entrepreneurship at these clusters. The Bio-clusters are addressing major Missions. The Cryo-EM is installed and working in the B-Life bio-cluster.It has been announced as a national facility from 1st Feb., 2018. During the year 2018-19, several usersfrom institutions outside of the cluster will come and use the facility. Three hands on workshops willbe conducted for training users in cryo-EM. Structural biology meetings will be conducted and collaboratein running with other organisations example - with Electron Microscopy Society of India in July 2018.
(ii) Public Private Partnerships
15.7 Department has supported creation of infrastructure and several Public Private Partnership programsto foster Bio-entrepreneurship through "Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)",a Public Sector Undertaking of DBT. The Department supports BIRAC for fostering and nurturing theBiotech Enterprises specially start-ups and SME's for enhancing their innovation research capacities andpromoting affordable product development.
15.8 To serve various dimensions of its mandate, BIRAC operates mainly in 3 verticals viz.:
- Investment: BIRAC as a core developmental agency has initiated several schemes, whichfocuses on the entire product development chain from idea to proof of concept, to early stage- late stage, validation scale up, right up to commercialization
- Entrepreneurship Development: Nurturing the ecosystem by providing the enabling environment,BIRAC through its Bioincubators Nurturing Entrepreneurship for Scaling Technologies (BioNEST)
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programme provides support for the establishment of bio-incubators. Through BioNEST,BIRAC has supported 30 globally competitive incubators across India that house more than300 biotech startups.
- Strategic Partnership group: Leveraging and fostering global and national partnerships formeeting its mandate. Some important partnerships are:
• Grand Challenges India (GCI): A consortium of DBT, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation,Wellcome Trust, USAID, and BIRAC, focussing on supporting innovations in the areasof maternal and child health, agriculture and nutrition, sanitation and infectious diseases
• Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA): Support highquality bilateral research, encourage and enable Indo-French collaboration between public,private research groups, industry, clinicians and end-users in the domain of redbiotechnology
• Wellcome Trust, UK: Support innovations in translational medicine in the domain ofdiagnostics for infectious diseases
15.9 The following table shows the BE, RE allocations and actual expenditure, year-wise, for the years2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2018-19 in respect of the scheme 'Industrial and EntrepreneurshipDevelopment':-
(Rupees in crore)
Year Budget Estimates Revised Estimates Actual Expenditure
2015-16 69.00 69.00 69.61
2016-17 205.00 192.00 187.90
2017-18 203.00 222.82 191.12*
2018-19 249.24 -- --
* (up to 31st January 2018)
15.10 The Committee notes the continual increase in the RE budgetary allocation under the head 'Industrialand Entrepreneurship Development' post 2015-16. On being enquired about the reason for the increasein the BE allocation under this head in comparison to the RE allocation, the Department has informedthat there is about 10% increase in the allocation and it is required for meeting the committed enhancedtargets set out for the year 2018-19. The Committee has been informed that during the financial year2017-18 the Department has provided support for establishment of 3 Bio-clusters and for undertakingprograms under Public Private Partnership to BIRAC. More than 400 entrepreneurs and startups andsmall and medium enterprises have been provided support and 30 Bio-incubation centre have beensupported. During the year 2017-18, 20 technologies have been developed, 14 technologies transferred/commercialized, 14 patent applications have been filed and 4 patents have been granted under theStartups Innovation Research Program.
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15.11 The Committee expresses its satisfaction over the fund utilisation capacity of the Departmentunder this head. The Committee further notes the action taken by the Department during theyear 2017-18. The Committee considering the fund utilisation of the Department under this headis hopeful that the Department would continue its earnest efforts and make optimal utilisationof the funds made available for the year 2018-19 and also make sincere efforts to achieve thephysical as well as financial targets envisaged.
15.12 Responding to the query of the Committee regarding the action plan prepared by the Departmentfor the year 2018-19, the Department informed the following:-
1. The Department will forge new partnerships to create new Biotechnology Parks in the countryto facilitate biotech product development, entrepreneurship, research and innovation in areaswhere such facilities are not available and continue to support ongoing Biotech Parks inaccordance with their project duration. New clusters will be supported for biotech industryand start-up.
2. To promote culture of innovation and entrepreneurship and to empower the Indian biotechinnovation ecosystem for Affordable Product Development. The Department will continue tosupport innovation research mentorship and capacity programs through BIRAC.
3. The Department will continue to foster innovation by promoting entrepreneurship developmentthrough support to the BIRAC for implementation of programs like- BIRAC BioNEST (BIRAC- Bioincubation: Nurturing Entrepreneurs for Scaling up Technology), SITARE (StudentsInnovations for Advancement of Research Explorations), eYUVA (Encouraging Youth forUndertaking Innovative Research through Vibrant Acceleration), Social Innovation programmefor Products Affordable & Relevant to Societal Health (SPARSH), BIRAC Seed Fund.
4. The Department will work towards the following action points of Startup India Action pointand Make India Action plan:
(i) Scale up the number of Startups in the sector by nurturing approximately 300-500 newStartups each year to have around 2,000 Startups by 2020.
(ii) Set up 50 Bio-Incubators and 150 technology transfer offices across India. (BIRAC hasalready supported 30 Bioincubators till now).
(iii) Establish 5 Regional centres of BIRAC in the next 5 years. (3 Regional Centres areoperational)
(iv) Set up infrastructure for biopharma product development including facilities.
(v) 10 Bio-connect offices will be established and 10-15 Technology transfer offices will besupported.
15.13 The Committee shares the ambitious and inspiring action plan prepared by the Departmentfor the year 2018-19. The Committee, however, is not very pleased with the numbers achieved
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on count of startups, entrepreneurs and small & medium enterprises i.e. 220, 225 and 150respectively supported by the Department during the year 2017-18. The Department, on the onehand, aims to nurture approximately 300-500 new startups each year but, on the other hand, theDepartment in the year 2017-18 could only manage to support a total of 220 startups which isway too less than what the Department intends. The Committee is of the view that the Departmentwhile providing financial support to the startups should also ensure the sustainability of thesupported startups. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish a detailednote including inter-alia details on the status of the startups supported by the Department duringthe last 3 years, how many of them are in operation, etc.
15.14 Similarly, the Department has been taking action for establishment of 150 TechnologyTransfer Offices across the country as a part of its strategy to achieve US$ 100 billion by 2025under National Biotechnology Development Strategy and targets to establish 15 such officesduring the year 2018-19. The Committee feels that if the Department achieves this target ofestablishing 15 Technology Transfer Offices during the year 2018-19 and continues to maintainthis pace year after year, it will be able to reach the figure of 150 only in 2027 and not by 2025.
15.15 The Committee, therefore, is of the considered view that the Department should sets itstargets pragmatically on the basis of its performance during last few years.
16. ASSISTANCE TO AUTONOMOUS INSTITUTIONS
16.1 The Committee notes that the Department provides support to 15 Autonomous Institutions and 1International Institution and has 3 Public Sector Units, namely, (i) Bharat Immunologicals and BiologicalsCorporation Limited (BIBCOL), (ii) Indian Vaccines Corporation Limited, and (iii) Biotechnology IndustryResearch Assistance Council (BIRAC).
16.2 The following table presents the BE & RE allocations and actual expenditure, year-wise, for theyears 2015-16, 2016-17 and BE allocation for 2018-19 in respect of the scheme Budgetary allocationunder the head 'Assistance to Autonomous Institutions' for the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 is as under:-
(` in crore)
Year Budget Estimates Revised Estimates Actual Expenditure
2016-17 660.00 660.00 649.06
2017-18 708.53 724.53 556.4*
2018-19 748.98 -- --
* As on 31st January, 2018
16.3 The Committee notes that the budgetary allocation in BE 2018-19 under the head 'Assistance toAutonomous Institutions' has been pegged to ` 748.98 crore which was `724.53 crore in RE 2017-18.Responding to the query of the Committee about the projected demand made by the Department under
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this head, the Department has submitted that it has submitted a projected requirement of `831 croreagainst which ` 748.98 has been allocated in BE 2018-19.
16.4 Informing the Committee about the achievement of Autonomous Institutions for the year 2017-18,the Department has submitted that the achievements consist of training of skilled manpower, collaborationwith various industries, publication of more than 800 research papers, filing of 30 patents, grant of 8patents and development /transfer of 10 technologies. It has been informed that the Autonomous institutionshave forged several new partnerships with the industries and other research institutions. These institutionshave efficiently taken up their mandates in respective area of research and development, training andother activities including services. Some of the scientific achievements made and leads developed duringthe year 2017-18 by the autonomous institutions are given below:-
• Freeze-stable alum-adjuvanted vaccine formulation: a freeze-stable dry powder alum adsorbedantigen having stability at frozen conditions was prepared. It was observed that the formulationprotects the alum adjuvanted vaccines from cold temperature shock.
• Fabrication of biodegradable composite scaffolds at room temperature for tissue engineeringapplications: Composite scaffold blends of polymers PDLLA and Eudragit were developedusing the novel method of fusion of particles by treatment with methanol. Scaffold withdifferent surface charges can be fabricated, using this method, suitable for cellular interaction.
• Technology Transferred: Low calorie sugar (D-psicose) from fruit processing residues/ fructose(Patent Appl. No. 201611003411) was transferred to Nagarjuna Fertilizers and ChemicalsLimited, Hyderabad and CIAB-NAVITA: Liquid Whey Health Drink (Patent Application No.201711008368) was transferred to Diovita Foods Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi.
• Technologies developed viz. Fungal strain with impaired catabolite repression for lignocellulosicdegradation, Novel insecticidal molecules, compositions thereof, methods of preparing thereof,Phytase enriched tomato fruit.
16.5 The Committee notes the increase in budgetary allocation under the head 'Assistance toAutonomous Institutions' in BE 2018-19. The Committee hopes that the enhanced budgetaryallocation of `̀̀̀̀748.98 crore will further help these Autonomous Institutions to manage theirfinancial requirements in a better way and also help them carrying out their mandate moreeffectively and efficiently. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to ensurethat the budgetary allocation made in respect of these Autonomous Institutions is optimallyutilised and the financial as well as physical objectives/targets set for the year 2018-19 arerealised.
16.6 Responding to the query of the Committee regarding the financial assistance provided to theseAutonomous Institutions during the last three year, the Department has informed that total amount of`561.60 crore, `649.05 crore and `724.53 crore has been released in favour of these Institutions forthe year 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 respectively. The details of the release of funds to these
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Autonomous Institutions along with the actual expenditure thereof during the last three years are asunder:-
(`̀̀̀̀ in crore)
Sl. No. Name 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Budget Actual Budget Actual Budget ActualAllocation Expenditure Allocation Expenditure Allocation Expenditure*
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1. National Institute of 52.55 53.86 61.00 58.01 67.00 53.73Immunology,New Delhi
2. National Centre for Cell 40.00 39.69 49.50 42.67 54.85 39.23Science, Pune
3. Centre for DNA Finger 84.50 83.56 63.70 43.31 40.20 32.37Printing & Diagnostics,Hyderabad
4. National Brain Research 30.50 27.39 28.45 25.69 43.01 39.33Centre, Gurgaon
5. National Institute for 28.60 27.20 31.19 31.48 38.00 26.64Plant Genome Research,New Delhi
6. Institute of Bioresources 9.79 10.28 29.71 21.86 27.00 34.60& SustainableDevelopment, Imphal
7. Institute of Life 35.89 36.27 37.44 37.02 59.40 42.00Sciences, Bhubaneswar
8. Translational Health 29.00 29.24 30.00 24.31 34.00 23.06Science & TechnologyInstitute, Faridabad
9. Rajiv Gandhi Centre for 38.70 39.41 55.00 46.19 65.66 59.62Biotechnology,Thiruvananthapuram
10. National Institute of 20.58 29.78 21.31 25.78 26.94 18.59Biomedical Genomics,Kalyani
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1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
11. Regional Centre for 29.30 30.10 23.27 21.59 25.65 18.44Biotechnology, Faridabad
12. National Agri-Food 35.00 32.88 69.00 70.54 31.00 26.33Biotechnology Institute,Mohali
13. Institute for Stem Cell 45.09 45.89 68.70 45.42 87.36 41.20Research andRegenerative Medicine,Bengaluru
14. National Institute of 30.70 29.91 35.28 35.85 75.50 59.82Animal Biotechnology,Hyderabad
15. Centre of Innovative 29.25 22.20 16.50 18.33 14.46 14.69and AppliedBioprocessing, Mohali
16. International Centre for 22.15 20.81 29.00 28.00 34.50 26.75Genetic Engineering andBiotechnology, NewDelhi
TOTAL 561.60 558.47 649.05 576.05 724.53 556.4
* As on 31st January, 2018
16.7 The Committee notes that some of the Autonomous Institutions of the Department failedto utilise the budgetary supports fully made in their favour during the financial years 2016-17and 2017-18. The Committee expresses its dissatisfaction over the underutilisation of the budgetarysupport by these institutions. The utilisation in terms of per cent has continuously gone downfrom 99.44% to 88.75% and from 88.75% to 76.79% during the year 2015-16, 2016-17 and 2017-18 (till 31st January, 2018) respectively. The unsatisfactory financial performance of theAutonomous Institution during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 (till 31st January, 2018) is areflection of poor monitoring by the Department over these institutions. The Committee is ofthe view that had the Department monitored the financial performance of these institutions onaccount of the budgetary support made in their favour, the sub-optimal utilisation of funds couldhave been avoided. The Committee is of the opinion that the Department needs to be proactivein its approach and should not have the laid back attitude about the financial position of theseinstitutes.
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16.8 The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should put in place a robustinternal monitoring mechanism in order to monitor the financial performance of these autonomousinstitutions on a regularly basis and take remedial and corrective preventive measures ifunderutilisation is registered.
17. BIOTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY RESEARCH ASSISTANCE COUNCIL (BIRAC)
17.1 The Department has informed the Committee that Biotechnology Industry Research AssistanceCouncil (BIRAC) is a not-for-profit public sector undertaking under the aegis of the Department. BIRAC,being a unique organisation in the biotechnology ecosystem, works as an interface agency of theDepartment of Biotechnology and has the mandate of fostering and nurturing the Biotech Enterprisesspecially start-ups and SME's for enhancing their innovation research capacities and promoting affordableproduct development. The Committee notes that BIRAC supports Industry-Academia interaction, serveas a single window for the emerging biotech industry; helps establish connectivity with professional andinstitutional networks; and provides financial support for quality innovation targeted at affordable solutionsand product development. All DBT's biotechnology industry and entrepreneurship Schemes includingPublic Private Partnership Programmes are implemented by BIRAC. The Department has submitted thattoday more than 1000 companies - large, small, medium and start-ups; and entrepreneurs are a part ofBIRAC's Innovators network. During the last three years 74 products and technologies are commercialised/ready for commercialisation, 84 patent applications filed and 8 patents have been granted.
17.2 Budgetary allocation under the head 'Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council' (BIRAC)for the year 2017-18 and 2018-19 is as under:-
(`̀̀̀̀ in crore)
Year Budget Estimates Revised Estimates
2017-18 30.00 30.00
2018-19 31.00 --
17.3 In reply to the query of the Committee about the proposed activities of BIRAC for the year2018-19, the Department has informed that BIRAC will continue its programs under the (i) InvestmentSchemes (ii) Fostering Innovation by Promoting Entrepreneurship Development (iii) Mentorship andCapacity Building (iv) Supporting Ecosystem. In addition to the aforementioned activities which BIRACwill continue, following are the new activities which will further strengthen and empower the emergingBiotech enterprises:
• Product Commercialisation Unit and Regulatory Cell-BIRAC will facilitate its supported startupsand entrepreneurs to take their innovations from "bench to bedside". BIRAC will set up aProduct commercialisation fund for the startups and entrepreneurs.
• Entrepreneurial Support to more than 150 start-ups/entrepreneurs during 2018-19 throughfunding and incubation.
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• Infrastructural development-BIRAC will support and establish 10 new incubators during2018-19 and plans to establish 2 new regional centers.
• More recently the Government has launched National Biopharma Mission which would be acollective effort to accelerate biopharma market in India through industry academia collaboration.This is being led by Department of Biotechnology and implemented by BIRAC.
• Anti-Microbial resistance-BIRAC along with Nesta had launched Discovery awards to tacklethe menace of AMR and to prepare Indian teams for the Longitude Prize. BIRAC will launchmore such calls in the field of AMR.
• Alliance with state Governments-BIRAC is planning to collaborate with State Government totake up state specific challenges and find their solutions.
17.4 The Committee applauds the work being done by BIRAC in the advancement of biotechnologysector in the country by way of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, promotion of affordableinnovation, empowering start-ups and small and medium enterprises, helping in commercialisationof biotechnological advancements.
17.5 The Committee hopes that the proposed activities of BIRAC for the year 2018-19 such assetting up of a Product Commercialization Fund for the startups and entrepreneurs, establishmentof 10 new incubators and 2 new regional centers, etc. would be completed within the timescheduled fixed for the purpose and the budgetary support of `̀̀̀̀31.00 crore in BE 2018-19 wouldprove to be adequate to cater to the financial needs of the Council and if not the Departmentshould seek more funds for the purpose at RE stage.
17.6 The Committee while taking note that 84 patent applications have been filed in the lastthree years by BIRAC and 8 patents have been granted expresses its concerns over the not soencouraging figure of patents gained during the said period. The Committee is of the consideredview that gaining patent on a technology is the acknowledgement of the novelty of the developedtechnology which can further be scaled up by way of commercialising it. Thus, the Committeestrongly feels that BIRAC needs to be more proactive in its approach and revisit its strategy soas to gain a higher number of patents in future.
18. PROMOTION OF BIOTECHNOLOGY IN NORTH EASTERN REGION (NER) OF INDIA
18.1 The Committee learns that since 2009-2010, DBT has been making concerted effort towardsdevelopment of North Eastern Region (NER) of India. With a mandate to spend 10% of its annual budgettowards development in North Eastern Region (NER) of India, DBT has adopted the approach ofproactively engaging with the scientific community of NER and facilitate their interaction with leadinginstitutions in the rest of the country. This approach has helped to evolve and implement the north easternregion-specific biotech programmes (NERBP) that are aimed at harnessing the region's rich bio-resourcesfor the overall development of the region. Furthermore, DBT works in close co-operation with variousother Government Ministries/Departments/Agencies at the Central and State level along with universities
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and R&D institutions towards the common goal of developing and implementing quality R&D andextension biotech programmes, including human resource development (HRD), research capacity building,training and entrepreneurship in NER.
18.2 The key focus areas for support are R&D activities in Agri-Biotechnology, Medical Biotechnology,Aquaculture and Animal Biotechnology, Basic and Modern Biotechnology, Environment Biotechnology;Infrastructure and HRD; Education and Training.
18.3 During last two years new initiatives have been started on Scented Rice, Banana, Integrating HerbalMedicine for Metabolic Syndrome, MDR-TB, and Duck Improvement in NER, for Training Workshopsin Capacity Building. Fresh calls were given for long-term programmes which included Units of Excellenceand Visiting Research Professorship (VRP). Implementation of all other ongoing programmes was continuedand it included Twinning R&D in all six streams of biotechnology, Chemical Ecology, Biotech Hubs,BLiSS, Overseas Associateship, etc.
18.4 18 projects on Scented Rice Programme were initiated and funding support provided. Out of 91proposals received on Banana, 25 were recommended for funding. MDR-TB: 49 proposals were receivedand 24 were shortlisted for further evaluation. U-Excel: 12 new Units of Excellence were recommended.Subsequent release of funds was continued for the other ongoing programmes (Twinning, Biotech Hubs,BLiSS, etc.)
18.5 Technology Incubation Centre for Entrepreneurship development on Mushroom culture and Farminghas been established at Bodoland University. It is imparting training to farmer entrepreneurs in theBodoland region of Assam
18.6 Overall achievements in the ongoing programmes are as below:
A. R&D Initiatives
• TWINNING R&D programme: More than 480 such networks projects have been implementedso far for the benefit of this region.
• Under Units of Excellence programme, 32 mid-career scientists (below 45 years) with promisingtrack-record in NER have been supported with U-Excel for pursuing innovative research intheir respective fields of specialisation.
• A Unique Network Programme on Chemical Ecology of NER involving institutions from NERand leading institutions (IISc, NCBS, UAS) from Bangalore has been initiated.
• Specific R&D programmes in a consortium mode on "NER-Scented Rice" Joha & Black Ricehas been implemented in NER.
• Network programme on yield enhancement and evaluation of medicinal value of NER Bananahas been initiated in NER.
• Network programme on "Orchid Bioresources of NER, Conservation, database developmentand informatics network" has been implemented.
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• A multi-centric network programme has been implemented for promoting Eco-friendly agriculturepractices in 14 districts across all 8 NE states, with emphasis upon the application of bio-inputs (biopesticides, biofertilizers) for organic farming of key high value crops (HVCs) ofNER, mass multiplication of required bio-inputs and evaluation of their efficacy. Under thisprogramme training to nearly 1400 farmers in the use of bio inputs in organic farming of 9target crops (5 spices, 2 fruits and 2 vegetable crops) was provided.
B. Human Resource Development
• Overseas Associateship: 170 Scientists from NER have been awarded through yet anotherprogram of similar nature, 11 Scientists were provided National Associateship for advancedtraining at leading institutions in India.
• M.Sc/M.Tech in Biotechnology has also been supported in five Universities (Assam AgriculturalUniversity, Tezpur University, IIT Guwahati, NEHU, College of veterinary Sciences for AnimalBiotech) in NER. PDF program has also been implemented for the NER researchers.
• Establishment of DBT Biotechnology/Bioinformatics training centre for NER Researchers atACTREC, Mumbai. More than 50 researchers from NER have been trained at ACTREC.
• Specialised Training programme for "Enhancing Capacity building in genomics - driven researchin human health and disease in NER by NIBMG, Kalyani has been initiated. 50 Researchershave been trained in NER.
• 40 researchers from NER have been trained at National Institute of High Security AnimalDiseases, Bhopal under Pathogen Discovery Initiatives.
• Establishment of Centre for Empowerment of Human Resources in NER at NEHU, Shillong.
• Special Biotech Industrial Training Program (BITP) for NER students is being organised everyyear. 80 PG students have been trained under this programme at various industries.
• 15 colleges have been recognised so far as Star Colleges in NER.
• Establishment of Biotech Laboratories (BLiSS) at 88 Senior Secondary Schools in NER.
• 18 institutions of NER are part of a DBT e-Library Consortium (NER-DeLCON) whichprovides access to more than 900 high impact e-journals.
• 30 bioinformatics Centres in the 8 states of the NER networked as NEBINet.
• Establishment of Centre for Empowerment of Human Resources in NER at NEHU, Shillong.
C. Infrastructure Development Programme in NER
• A regional level Animal House Facility is being established at RMRC, Dibrugarh, to support theentire NER demand of using small animals for research.
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• A DBT-NER Centre for "Advance Animal Disease Diagnostic and Management Consortium(ADMaC)" is being established in NER involving all eight states and few specialised laboratoriesfrom other parts of the country.
• To create an environment of training and research in Healthcare, the Department providedsupport to 21 Principle Investigators of 11 medical colleges/institutions in NER States.
• A modern X-Ray Crystallography Facility has been established at IIT Guwahati as a regionalfacility and being used by the NER researchers.
18.7 The Committee takes note of the R&D activities undertaken by the Department. TheCommittee appreciates the implementation of a multi-centric network programme in 14 districtsof NER. The Committee, however, feels that the programme being of immense value needs tobe further extended and implemented in other districts of North Eastern Region as well so thatthe fruits of this programme can also be shared with these left out districts.
18.8 The Committee further observes that a regional level Animal House facility at RMRC,Dibrugarh to support the entire NER demand of using small animals for research and DBT-NERCentre for "Advance Animal Disease Diagnostic and Management Consortium (ADMaC) arebeing established by the Department under its Infrastructure Development Programme. TheCommittee is of the view that establishment of these infrastructures will play a pivot role inbridging the infrastructure gap in NER. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Departmentto complete the task of establishment of these two infrastructures in a time bound manner andthe budgetary support must be made available to avoid any dilly dallying.
18.9 Detail of budget utilisation under NER program during the last five years and budget estimates forthe BE 2018-19 are as follows:
(`̀̀̀̀ in crore)
Year Budget Utilisation
2013-14 148.50 136.00 (91.58%)
2014-15 150.00 140.00 (93.33%)
2015-16 160.00 150.00 (93.75%)
2016-17 180.00 172.00 (95.55%)
2017-18 145.00 110.00* (75.86%)
2018-19 159.93 --
*Upto 29th January, 2018
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18.10 The Committee is displeased to note that during the year 2017-18, the Departmentcould not fully utilise the budgetary allocation earmarked for the North Eastern Region and only75.86% of the total budgetary support could have been utilised. The Committee takes seriousnote of the fact that against the total budgetary allocation of `̀̀̀̀145.00 crore, the Departmentmanaged to spend only `̀̀̀̀110.00 crore. The Committee strongly believes that the NER has immensepotential to be converted into wealth for not only this Region but in the overall well being of ournation. The Committee, therefore, is of the view that the Department should make earnestefforts to gauge the untapped potential of this Region with the help of its biotechnologicalinterventions and make optimal utilisation of the budgetary support earmarked for the purpose.
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RECOMMENDATIONS/OBSERVATIONS — AT A GLANCE
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF THE DEPARTMENT DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS:
The Committee expresses its satisfaction over the funds utilisation capacity of the Departmentduring the last five years. Fund utilisation capacity of the Department is reflective of its financialprudence and due diligence while making optimal utilisation of the budgetary allocation.
(Para 2.2)
BUDGET ALLOCATION FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2018-19
The Committee takes note of the Action Plan contemplated by the Department for the year2018-19 and hopes that the Department would utilise the increased budgetary allocation of`̀̀̀̀2411.53 crore in BE 2018-19 optimally and ensure that the targets/objectives set for the year2018-19 are fully achieved within the stipulated time frame. (Para 3.3)
The Committee is also of the opinion that timely completion/realisation of the targets/objectives will certainly help the Department to improve its performance both physically as wellas financially and also help in reducing the overhead costs resulting from the delayed progress.Thus, the Committee recommends the Department to strictly adhere to the time frame for thetargets/objectives set and keep a continuous vigil with the help of a robust internal monitoringmechanism in order to ensure that the fixed timelines are met and the budgetary supportprovided for the purpose is utilised judiciously and optimally. (Para 3.4)
The Committee while sharing the ambitious and inspiring targets/objectives envisaged bythe Department is of the considered view that the adequate financial support needs to be madeavailable by the Government for the realisation of these targets/objectives set by the Department.The Committee, therefore, is of the firm view that the request made by the Department ofBiotechnology for the additional amount of `̀̀̀̀1000.00 crore during the year 2018-19 is fullyjustified. The Committee, therefore, desires the Department to share its view with the concernedMinistry/Department of Government of India and impress upon them and seek the requisitebudgetary allocations at the RE stage for the successful implementation of its Mission Programmes.
(Para 3.7)
The Committee also applauds the Department for establishment of a Biotech-KISAN FarmerCentric Mission at Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization (HESCO),Dehradun to cover the agro-climatic zone of Western Himalayan Region. The Committee furthertakes note that the proposals for establishment of five more Biotech-KISAN Hubs in five agro-climatic zones viz. Central Plain Zone, Lower Gangetic Plains Region, Southern Plateau andHills, Eastern Himalayan Region and East Coast Plains and Hills have also been developed by theDepartment. (Para 3.8)
The Committee while taking note of the above mentioned proposals for establishing fivemore Biotech-KISAN Hubs hopes that the Department would work in tandem with the respectiveState Governments and the other stakeholders of these regions to establish these five Hubs andcompletes the task in a time bound manner. The Committee, therefore, recommends the
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Department to constitute a high level committee consisting members from the Department andthe respective State Governments to ensure that the deadlines fixed for the completion of thesehubs are strictly adhered to and zero tolerance policy be opted in the matter in order to maximisethe benefits of this programme for these regions. (Para 3.9)
BIOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
The Committee notes that in BE 2017-18, budgetary allocation of `̀̀̀̀ 1250.58 crore was madeunder this head which was insignificantly increased to `̀̀̀̀ 1252.42 crore in RE 2017-18 of whichalso the Department could only manage to spend `̀̀̀̀850.11 crore i.e. 67.87% utilisation of thefunds allocated till the end of January, 2018 leaving `̀̀̀̀402.31 crore to be spent only in 59 days.
(Para 4.4)
The Committee, thus, expresses its displeasure over the underutilisation of funds madeavailable to the Department under this head during the year 2017-18. The Committee feels thatthe financial performance of the Department under the head Biotechnology Research andDevelopment is not very encouraging to note. The Committee firmly believes that the R&Dactivities are in the core of all other activities and of the greatest importance for any technologicaladvancement to take place. Thus, under-utilisation of the budgetary allocation made for thepurpose is perturbing. The Committee is of the view that the Department should have alignedits budgetary allocation with the activities undertaken during this period and it should have beenensured that a constant vigil was taken while prioritising activities and funds utilisation thereon.The Committee, accordingly, recommends that the Department should accord due focus andrecognition to its R&D activities while making earnest efforts to utilise the budgetary allocationsso made fully and optimally. (Para 4.5)
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
The Committee notes the work done and progress achieved by the Department during theperiod 2016-17 and 2017-18 (upto 6th February, 2018). The Committee is also happy to note thenumber of technologies, i.e. 65, developed during this period by the Department. The Committee,however, is little dismayed to note the numbers of technologies which could actually be put tocommercialisation. The Committee is at a loss to figure out the reasons due to which rest of thedeveloped technologies of the Department could not reach to the stage of commercialisation ifthey are well aligned with the technological requirements of the concerned industry and as perits requirement. The Committee is also of the view that limited availability of well structuredframework to facilitate and undertake technology transfer and commercialisation and poor linkagebetween the Department and the industry adding to the poor performance of the Department toput its developed technologies to commercialisation on a much greater scale. The Committee,therefore, recommends the Department to take necessary action in the matter and take onboard the concerned stakeholders as well while identifying its industry oriented research workso that the developed technologies are best suited and able to cater to the technologicalrequirements of the concerned industry. The Department should also come out with a forward
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linkage forum where the interface between the Department and the industry is further strengthenedwhich in turn would help the Department as well to keep pace with the latter's technologicalrequirements. (Para 5.3)
CROP BIOTECHNOLOGY
The Committee appreciates the efforts being undertaken and progress achieved by theDepartment in the field of Crop Biotechnology during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18. The Committeeis hopeful that with its earnest efforts in this direction the Department would be able to fetchthe desired results. The Committee, however, feels that the institutional linkage between theDepartment and the agricultural universities along with ICAR further needs to be strengthened.The Committee is also of the view that the Department should collaborate with the Internationalinstitutes of repute working in these fields. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to forge partnerships with such institutes to further intensify its research activitiesin the field of agricultural biotechnology. (Para 6.4)
The Committee also notes that the Department has been supporting a research anddevelopment proposal for development of rust resistant variety in Brassica juncea and a proposalhas also been supported for dissecting the molecular interface between the biotrophic pathogenSporisorium scitamineum and its host sugarcane. The Committee, however, feels that droughtresistance varieties of sugarcane, if made available, will ease out the problems, to a considerableextent, being faced by the sugarcane growers in the country due to lack of irrigation facilitiesand dependence on the vagaries of monsoon. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to also start its research and development activities in the direction of developingdrought resistance varieties of sugarcane in the country. (Para 6.5)
The Committee expresses its displeasure over flie poor financial performance of theDepartment in terms of utilisation of the budgetary support made available in respect of abovementioned 19 yield improvement projects. It is disheartening and discouraging as well to notethat the Department though allocated `̀̀̀̀37.33 crore for the purpose, could only spend `̀̀̀̀22.22crore which is just 59.52 per cent utilisation of the total financial support. The Committee is ofthe considered view that the Department fails to attach the due importance to these projects andcould not take timely action to ensure that budgetary allocation is utilised fully and optimally.The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish the detailed reasons for thispoor utilisation of budgetary allocation. (Para 6.7)
ANIMAL PRODUCTION
The Committee is appreciative of the progress made by the Department in the field ofAnimal Production. The Committee, however, feels that the Department has a long way to goin this direction considering the fact that Indian livestock production system still operatessignificantly on the traditional knowledge. It is noteworthy that a large section of our livestockhas very dismal average productivity. The Committee is also of the considered view that todeliver the technological advancements to the targeted group, the Department needs to further
38
strengthen its linkage with the stakeholders. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to start a systemic designed outreach campaign to popularise biotechnology amonglivestock farmers. (Para 7.3)
The Committee also recommends the Department to come out with a strategy paper in thematter and prepare a roadmap to enhance the production and productivity of livestock in thecountry. (Para 7.4)
ANIMAL HEALTH (VACCINE & DIAGNOSTIC)
The Committee expresses its deep concerns over the loss to exchequer on count of Brucellainfection. The Committee, therefore, is of the considered opinion that given the quantum ofeconomic losses to public exchequer due to infection in animals and humans, the problem throwsa huge challenge to the Department of Biotechnology expecting biotechnological solution to thisproblem. The Committee is happy to note that the Department is seized of the issue and in itsendeavour to address the issue making efforts in the form of implementation of 'Brucellosis FreeVillages Mission' on pilot scale in 50 villages of 10 States in phased manner. The Committee,however, feels that the Department needs to further intensify this Mission Programme and reachout to all the States where the cases of Brucella infections have been registered. (Para 8.5)
The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should make a database forthe purpose and roll out the implementation of 'Brucellosis Free Villages Mission' in rest of theStates as well in a time bound manner so as to not only provide the biotechnological solution tothe problem but also preventing the huge economic losses. (Para 8.6)
AQUACULTURE & MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY
The Committee takes note of the work done/being done by the Department in the field ofAquaculture and Marine Biotechnology. However, it observes that health, feed and nutrition arethe major challenges to be addressed in marine and aquaculture sector. The Committee, therefore,recommends the Department to prepare a roadmap for developing requisite and efficient diagnosticsand take prophylactic measures to address these issues. (Para 9.5)
The Committee also recommends that the Department should strive hard to complete thetask of setting up Centres of excellence in theme based areas of Aquaculture and MarineBiotechnology to boost up the research and development activities in a time bound manner andensure that the time frame fixed for the purpose is strictly adhered to. (Para 9.6)
MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS
The Committee is of the considered view that medicinal and aromatic plants sector has theimmense potential and untapped opportunities. This sector in Committee's view can play asignificant role in helping diversified livelihood of poor and vulnerable section of our society. TheCommittee, thus, appreciates the move of the Department and hopes that the financial supportof `̀̀̀̀50.00 crore as earmarked for the Phyto-Pharma Plant Mission by the Department would be
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adequate to cater to the financial requirements of the Mission and the objectives/targets wouldbe achieved both in terms of physical and financial targets as envisaged by the Department.
(Para 10.3)
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
The Committee appreciates the progress made by the Department in the direction of vaccinedevelopment of diseases like malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, etc. The Committee, however,did not find any mention of the efforts being undertaken by the Department in the direction ofChikungunya and as to what research and development activities have been undertaken by theDepartment during last few years. The Committee is of the considered view that our country hasbeen facing severe health issues with regard to Chikungunya infection and the disturbing figuresof the deaths registered during last few years on account of this disease in our country. TheCommittee feels that there is a need to control mosquito population which can to an extent bean attributed factor in spreading Chikungunya infection. The Committee also feels that theDepartment of Biotechnology can play an important role by finding biotechnological solutions tokeep mosquito population under control. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Departmentto intensify its R&D and product development activities for development of safe, efficacious andinexpensive Chikungunya vaccine. (Para 11.4)
MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH
The Committee takes note of the efforts being made by the Department in the directionof maternal and child health. The Committee, however, is concerned to note that anemia,stunting, malnutrition and micronutrient malnutrition cases are widespread in the country andthe efforts being undertaken by the Department in the form of development of Iron fortified ricei.e. IFR-1 (fortified with iron) and IFR-2 (fortified with iron, folic acid) is nothing less than adrop in the ocean. The Committee is of the firm view that the Department has to come up without of box and innovative biotechnological solutions to these problems. The Committee, therefore,recommends the Department to chalk out a roadmap in this direction and make earnest effortsin providing scientific solution to these health problems related to child health. (Para 12.4)
STEM CELL RESEARCH
The Committee takes note of the information furnished by the Department on the researchwork going to understand the possible benefits of stem cells and observes that as of today, noneother than bone marrow transplantation or hematopoietic stem cells are accepted as standardline of treatment that can cure disorders in human beings. However, the Committee feels thatthe basic research work in this direction needs further push to explore the untapped potentialof stem cells in curing various disorders in human being in collaboration with the Institutes withstate-of-the-art facilities to facilitate such research works and recommends that adequate fundsbe earmarked for the purpose so that financial constrains would not hinder the research workin the country. The Committee is of the opinion that the advancements in biomedical researchin the field of stem cell would help in offering scientific solutions for treating a variety of disease
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such as diabetes, cancer, cardiology, neurology, etc. The Committee, nonetheless, would also liketo caution the Department about the unscientific or unethical stem cell therapy that continuesto pose a threat. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to run an awarenessprogramme in the country under its CSR activities and reach out to the concerned stakeholdersapprising them about the rightful status of the stem cells and their applications on the basis ofscientific evidences. The Committee is of the considered opinion that this awareness programmeof the Department would help understanding the whole gamut of stem cell research in thecountry. (Para 13.4)
PUBLIC HEALTH, FOOD & NUTRITION
The Committee takes note of the multi-centric Pan India study on the prevalence andpredictors of vitamin B12 deficiency initiated by the Department and the progress achievedthereon. The Committee, however, is little perturbed to note that the Department failed tofurnish the complete details like the total number of States identified for the study, timeschedule fixed for the completion of the task, physical targets envisaged, etc. in its BackgroundNote. The Committee is of the firm opinion that the Department should have been more cautiousand vigilant while submitting the information for the consideration of the Committee. TheCommittee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish a detailed note in the matter forthe consideration of the Committee. (Para 14.2)
BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR SOCIETAL DEVELOPMENT
The Committee notes the work being done by the Department for the societal developmentwith the help of its biotechnological interventions. The Committee, however, feels that thesubmission of the Department lacks the factual data in terms of total numbers of self-employmentgeneration through diffusion of proven and field-tested technologies demonstration, training andextension activities, total number of beneficiaries, number of projects supported under womenand child health care, etc. to support its claim. The Committee, therefore, recommends theDepartment to furnish a complete data inter alia including number of beneficiaries under itsvarious activities undertaken during the last three years by the Department under theBiotechnology for Societal Programme. (Para 15.4)
(B) INDUSTRIAL AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT
(i) Biotechnology Parks and Bio-Clusters
(ii) Public Private Partnerships
The Committee expresses its satisfaction over the fund utilisation capacity of the Departmentunder this head. The Committee further notes the action taken by the Department during theyear 2017-18. The Committee considering the fund utilisation of the Department under this headis hopeful that the Department would continue its earnest efforts and make optimal utilisationof the funds made available for the year 2018-19 and also make sincere efforts to achieve thephysical as well as financial targets envisaged. (Para 15.11)
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The Committee shares the ambitious and inspiring action plan prepared by the Departmentfor the year 2018-19. The Committee, however, is not very pleased with the numbers achievedon count of startups, entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises i.e. 220, 225 and 150respectively supported by the Department during the year 2017-18. The Department, on the onehand, aims to nurture approximately 300-500 new startups each year but, on the other hand, theDepartment in the year 2017-18 could only manage to support a total of 220 startups which isway too less than what the Department intends. The Committee is of the view that the Departmentwhile providing financial support to the startups should also ensure the sustainability of thesupported startups. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to furnish a detailednote including inter-alia details on the status of the startups supported by the Department duringthe last 3 years, how many of them are in operation, etc. (Para 15.13)
Similarly, the Department has been taking action for establishment of 150 TechnologyTransfer Offices across the country as a part of its strategy to achieve US$ 100 billion by 2025under National Biotechnology Development Strategy and targets to establish 15 such officesduring the year 2018-19. The Committee feels that if the Department achieves this target ofestablishing 15 Technology Transfer Offices during the year 2018-19 and continues to maintainthis pace year after year, it will be able to reach the figure of 150 only in 2027 and not by 2025.
(Para 15.14)
The Committee, therefore, is of the considered view that the Department should sets itstargets pragmatically on the basis of its performance during last few years. (Para 15.15)
ASSISTANCE TO AUTONOMOUS INSTITUTIONS
The Committee notes the increase in budgetary allocation under the head 'Assistance toAutonomous Institutions' in BE 2018-19. The Committee hopes that the enhanced budgetaryallocation of `̀̀̀̀748.98 crore will further help these Autonomous Institutions to manage theirfinancial requirements in a better way and also help them carrying out their mandate moreeffectively and efficiently. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Department to ensurethat the budgetary allocation made in respect of these Autonomous Institutions is optimallyutilised and the financial as well as physical objectives/targets set for the year 2018-19 arerealised. (Para 16.5)
The Committee notes that some of the Autonomous Institutions of the Department failedto utilise the budgetary supports fully made in their favour during the financial years 2016-17and 2017-18. The Committee expresses its dissatisfaction over the underutilisation of the budgetarysupport by these institutions. The utilisation in terms of per cent has continuously gone downfrom 99.44% to 88.75% and from 88.75% to 76.79% during the year 2015-16, 2016-17 and2017-18 (till 31st January, 2018) respectively. The unsatisfactory financial performance of theAutonomous Institution during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18 (till 31st January, 2018) is areflection of poor monitoring by the Department over these institutions. The Committee is of
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the view that had the Department monitored the financial performance of these institutions onaccount of the budgetary support made in their favour, the sub-optimal utilisation of funds couldhave been avoided. The Committee is of the opinion that the Department needs to be proactivein its approach and should not have the laid back attitude about the financial position of theseinstitutes. 16.8 The Committee, therefore, recommends that the Department should put in placea robust internal monitoring mechanism in order to monitor the financial performance of theseautonomous institutions on a regularly basis and take remedial and corrective preventive measuresif underutilisation is registered. (Para 16.7)
BIOTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY RESEARCH ASSISTANCE COUNCIL (BIRAC)
The Committee applauds the work being done by BIRAC in the advancement of biotechnologysector in the country by way of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, promotion of affordableinnovation, empowering start-ups and small and medium enterprises, helping in commercialisationof biotechnological advancements. (Para 17.4)
The Committee hopes that the proposed activities of BIRAC for the year 2018-19 such assetting up of a Product Commercialisation Fund for the startups and entrepreneurs, establishmentof 10 new incubators and 2 new regional centers, etc. would be completed within the timescheduled fixed for the purpose and the budgetary support of `̀̀̀̀31.00 crore in BE 2018-19 wouldprove to be adequate to cater to the financial needs of the Council and if not the Departmentshould seek more funds for the purpose at RE stage. (Para 17.5)
The Committee while taking note that 84 patent applications have been filed in the lastthree years by BIRAC and 8 patents have been granted expresses its concerns over the not soencouraging figure of patents gained during the said period. The Committee is of the consideredview that gaining patent on a technology is the acknowledgement of the novelty of the developedtechnology which can further be scaled up by way of commercialising it. Thus, the Committeestrongly feels that BIRAC needs to be more proactive in its approach and revisit its strategy soas to gain a higher number of patents in future. (Para 17.6)
PROMOTION OF BIOTECHNOLOGY IN NORTH EASTERN REGION (NER) OF INDIA
The Committee takes note of the R&D activities undertaken by the Department. TheCommittee appreciates the implementation of a multi-centric network programme in 14 districtsof NER. The Committee, however, feels that the programme being of immense value needs tobe further extended and implemented in other districts of North Eastern Region as well so thatthe fruits of this programme can also be shared with these left out districts. (Para 18.7)
The Committee further observes that a regional level Animal House facility at RMRC,Dibrugarh to support the entire NER demand of using small animals for research and DBT-NERCentre for "Advance Animal Disease Diagnostic and Management Consortium (ADMaC) arebeing established by the Department under its Infrastructure Development Programme. TheCommittee is of the view that establishment of these infrastructures will play a pivot role in
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bridging the infrastructure gap in NER. The Committee, therefore, recommends the Departmentto complete the task of establishment of these two infrastructures in a time bound manner andthe budgetary support must be made available to avoid any dilly dallying. 18.10 The Committeeis displeased to note that during the year 2017-18, the Department could not fully utilise thebudgetary allocation earmarked for the North Eastern Region and only 75.86% of the totalbudgetary support could have been utilised. The Committee takes serious note of the fact thatagainst the total budgetary allocation of `̀̀̀̀145.00 crore, the Department managed to spend only`̀̀̀̀ 110.00 crore. The Committee strongly believes that the NER has immense potential to beconverted into wealth for not only this Region but in the overall well being of our nation. TheCommittee, therefore, is of the view that the Department should make earnest efforts to gaugethe untapped potential of this Region with the help of its biotechnological interventions andmake optimal utilisation of the budgetary support earmarked for the purpose. (Para 18.8)
MINUTES
VI
SIXTH MEETING
The Committee met at 11.00 A.M. on Tuesday, the 13th February, 2018 in Committee Room 'A',Ground Floor, Parliament House Annexe, New Delhi.
MEMBERS PRESENT
1. Shri Anand Sharma — Chairman
RAJYA SABHA
2. Shrimati Renuka Chowdhury
3. Shri Sharad Pawar
4. Shri Bhupender Yadav
LOK SABHA
5. Dr. K. Gopal
6. Shri Harinarayan Rajbhar
7. Shri Vikram Usendi
SECRETARIAT
Shri M.K. Khan, Joint Secretary
Shrimati Sunita Sekaran, Director
Shri Mohd. Salamuddin, Additional Director
Shri Rajiv Saxena, Under Secretary
Representatives of Department of Biotechnology
1. Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary
2. Dr. (Ms.) Renu Swarup, Scientist 'H'
3. Dr. S.R. Rao, Scientist 'H'
4. Shri Chandra Prakash Goyal, Joint Secretary
5. Shri J.B. Mohapatra, JS&FA
6. Shri Sumedh Nagrare, Statistical Adviser
7. Dr. T. Madhan Mohan, Scientist 'G'
8. Dr. A.S. Ninawe, Scientist 'G'
9. Dr. Suchita Ninawe, Scientist 'G'
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10. Dr. Arvind Duggal, Scientist 'G'
11. Dr. Mohd. Aslam, Scientist 'G'
12. Dr. (Mrs.) Shailja V. Gupta, Scientist 'G'
13. Dr. (Mrs.) Alka Sharma, Scientist 'G'
14. Dr. (Mrs.) Meenakshi Munshi, Scientist 'G'
15. Shri Sundeep Sarin, Scientist 'G'
2. At the outset, the Chairman welcomed the Members of the Committee, the Secretary and his teamof officers, Department of Biotechnology to the meeting. The Chairman sought to know the views ofthe Secretary about the budgetary allocation for the year 2018-19, projected outlay, budgetary reduction,if any, and its impact on the ongoing/new projected programmes/projects/activities of the Department,targets envisaged for the next financial year, targets achieved during 2017-18, challenges faced by theDepartment and the corrective measures taken thereon, internal monitoring mechanism, etc.
3. Secretary, Department of Biotechnology made a power point presentation giving the snap shot ofthe major achievements of the Department; major schemes and activities undertaken in the area of humanresource development, basic and translational research and development, international-cooperation, supportto the North Eastern States etc. He informed that the first Biotech-KISAN Hub was established atDehradun covering agro-climatic zone of Western Himalayan Region and five more Biotech-KISAN Hubscovering five agro-climatic zones viz. Central Plain Zone, Lower Gangetic Plains Region, SouthernPlateau and Hills, Eastern Himalayan Region and East Coast Plains and Hills are in pipeline. The Committeewas also apprised about the various varieties of Maize, Rice and Wheat developed in DBT sponsoredprojects. The Committee was also informed about the Brucellosis Free Villages Mission and three newBrucella diagnostic kits launched by the Department. The Secretary informed the Committee that theDepartment has announced a Phyto-Pharma Plant Mission for conservation and cultivation of endangeredand threatened endemic medicinal plants available in North East India and discovery of new botanicaldrugs for unmet medical needs using the rich traditional ethno-botanical knowledge and biodiversity ofthese States with a cost of `50 crore. On the issue of Microbial Repositories, it was informed that theDepartment has set up country's largest Microbial Culture Collection Centre at NCCS, Pune and anotherMicrobial Repository has also been set up at IBSD, Imphal, Manipur for collection of microbial resourcesfrom North Eastern Region of the country. The Secretary also briefed the Committee about the MissionProgrammes of the Department and various activities undertaken by the Department in the direction ofAnimal production & Health, Aquaculture & Marine Biotechnology, Infectious diseases, Maternal & childhealth and Stem Cell research. While sharing the financial summary of the Department, the Secretaryinformed that the Department had utilised 98.86 per cent of the budgetary allocation made for the year2016-17 and, as on 31st January, 2018, the Department has managed to utilise 75.48 per cent of thefunds made available for the year 2017-18. The Secretary also assured the Committee that the expenditureof the Department would reach 98 per cent plus mark by the end of the current financial year.
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4. The Chairman and the Members of the Committee then raised certain issues such as contributionof the Department in the area of vaccine development; status of research programme in dengue, malaria,chikungunya, etc.; development of rust resistant variety of other crops including sugarcane; institutionallinkage between the Department, Agricultural Universities & ICAR; collaboration with the StateGovernments, status of tech transfer office and bio-connect offices; commercialisation of technologiesdeveloped by the Department, possible benefits of stem cell in brain surgery, spectrum disorders, autism,dyslexia, repair of knees, hips, etc.; activities in the field of management of sickle cell anemia, issuesrelated to malnutrition; National Bio Pharma Mission Programme etc.
5. The Secretary and other representatives of Department of Biotechnology, while presenting theirviews, also responded to some of the queries raised by the Chairman and Members of the Committee.The Chairman also directed the Secretary to furnish the written replies to some other queries/points/issues raised by the Chairman and the Members of the Committee, which could not be replied duringthe meeting, to the Secretariat within ten days.
6. The witnesses then withdrew and the Committee adjourned for tea break at 12.41 P.M.
7. * * *
8. * * *
9. * * *
10. * * *
11. * * *
12. * * *
13. * * *
14. A verbatim record of the proceedings was kept.
15. The meeting of the Committee adjourned at 2.04 P.M.
***Relate to other matters.
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IX
NINTH MEETING
The Committee met at 3.00 P.M. on Tuesday, the 6th March, 2018 in Room No. '63', First Floor,Parliament House, New Delhi.
MEMBERS PRESENT
1. Shri Anand Sharma — Chairman
RAJYA SABHA
2. Shri S.R. Balasubramoniyan
3. Shrimati Renuka Chowdhury
4. Shri C.P. Narayanan
5. Shri Bhupender Yadav
LOK SABHA
6. Shrimati Vasanthi M.
7. Shri Daddan Mishra
8. Shri Shivaji Adhalrao Patil
9. Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh
10. Shri Nagendra Singh
11. Shri Vikram Usendi
SECRETARIAT
Shrimati Sunita Sekaran, Director
Shri T.N. Pandey, Director
Shri S. Rangarajan, Additional Director
Shri Mohd. Salamuddin, Additional Director
Shri Rajiv Saxena, Under Secretary
2. At the outset, the Chairman welcomed the Members to the meeting of the Committee. He informedthe Members that the meeting had been convened to consider and adopt the draft 309th, 310th, 311th,312th, 313th, 314th and 315th reports on Demands for Grants 2018-19 of the Departments ofBiotechnology, Science & Fechnology, Scientific & Industrial Research, Space, Ministry of Environment,Forest and Climate Change, Department of Atomic Energy and Ministry of Earth Sciences, respectively.
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3. The Committee, after considering the recommendations made in the draft reports, adopted the draft309th, 310th, 311th, 312th, 313th, 314th and 315th reports after some alterations/modifications suggestedby the Chairman of the Committee in the 314th Report of Department of Atomic Energy. The Committeealso decided to present/lay the reports to both the Houses of Parliament on 13th March, 2018.
4. The Committee also decided to nominate the Chairman and in his absence Smt. Renuka Chowdhuryand in her absence Shri Prasanna Acharya to present the reports in Rajya Sabha and Dr. K. Gopal andin his absence Shri Vikram Usendi to lay the reports on the Table of Lok Sabha on 13th March, 2018.
5. * * *
6. * * *
7. * * *
8. The meeting of the Committee adjourned at 3.40 P.M.
***Related to other matters.
