The Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) was officially created on November 10th, 2023, following Cabinet approval, by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology. BRIC combines 14 Autonomous Institutions (AIs) to foster a unified approach to biotechnology research and innovation. With the visionary guidance of Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (IC) for Science & Technology, BRIC is positioned to be a central force in promoting research excellence and innovation in the biotech industry.
On November 9th–10th, 2024, the BRIC-National Institute of Immunology (NII) hosted the first-ever Foundation Day celebration. Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, honored the event as the Guest of Honor and delivered the Foundation Day lecture. Dr. Anand Deshpande from Persistent Systems attended as the Special Guest. The celebration brought together Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology and DG of BRIC, as well as the Directors of iBRIC, officials from DBT and BIRAC, and a vibrant community of researchers and students from multiple iBRIC institutions.
On November 9, 2024, the "Race from Science to Entrepreneurship" (RaSE) competition was held to foster entrepreneurial skills among young talent at iBRIC+ institutes. The event focused on commercializing biosciences, particularly in areas highlighted in the BioE3 Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment). Students from all 15 iBRIC+ institutes participated, showcasing innovative solutions to real-world challenges.
On November 10, 2024, the DBT-iBRIC+ family organized a sports meet and get-together, aiming to promote unity, physical fitness, teamwork, and camaraderie among its members. The event featured exciting competitions in Cricket, Badminton, Table Tennis, and Chess.
The BRIC has successfully facilitated collaboration among scientists and researchers across institutions, poised to yield remarkable advancements in India's biotechnology sector.
Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, and Director-General, BRIC, delivered a keynote address highlighting BRIC's transformative impact. "BRIC plays a pivotal role in enhancing the value and impact of research, fostering synergy, and transforming the power of Science, Technology, and Innovation," he emphasized. Shri Amitabh Kant, Guest of Honor and India's G20 Sherpa, praised the Department's initiatives, noting, "BRIC is poised to emerge as a landmark institution, driving India's biotechnology advancements and positioning the nation at the forefront of scientific innovation."
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)
