New Delhi- The fourth edition of Global Bio-India 2024, organised by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology, is now complete. The three-day conference, which was held in New Delhi from September 12 to 14, showcasing 11 Indian biotech startups.

The event, themed 'Biotech Innovation' and 'Bio-manufacturing,' emphasised the opportunities in the biotech industry and its impact on the bioeconomy. The conference also saw the rollout of 11 products, showcasing the country's emerging talent in biosciences.

The government's commitment to promoting innovation was evident in the launch of Calls for Proposals under the prestigious i4 (Innovation for Industry) and PACE (Promoting Academic Collaboration and Entrepreneurship) programs. The move is expected to further stimulate innovation in the country.

In his address, Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor, Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani, emphasised the need for India to develop organizational models similar to BIRAC for other emerging technologies like nanotechnology and quantum technology. He also stressed the importance of fostering deep tech startups led by PhDs and academic faculty, urging institutions to encourage entrepreneurship.

The conference also saw the presentation of awards to recognise exceptional contributions to the biotech industry. Exceptional contributions to the biotech industry were recognized with awards namely: BIRAC Innovators Awards, Best Startup Exhibitor Awards, Best Incubator Exhibitor Awards, and BioE3 Competition Awards. The event, which is now in its fourth edition, is expected to showcase the country's growing biotech industry and provide a platform for collaboration and innovation.