AP govt plans to set up separate dept for biotech

In a first-of-its-kind move by any state, the Andhra Pradesh government is planning to set up a separate department for biotechnology. This apart, it is also looking at setting up an 'International Institute of Life Sciences' in Gachibowli by the end of 2006.

Speaking to Business Standard, A Ashok, director of biotechnology, Government of Andhra Pradesh, said, "We are planning to set up a separate department for biotechnology that will focus on biotechnology, biopharma and natural gas sectors."

"This initiative is to ensure that the biotechnology sector receives its due place in the state. The plan is still in the draft stage and the separate department is likely to be ready within the next three to six months after Cabinet clearance," he added.

"So far, no state in the country has set up a separate department for biotechnology sector. Gujarat has a State Biotechnology Mission, but it is not a separate department in the state government," Ashok said.

The state government has allocated a special biotechnology fund of Rs 10 crore. With the setting up of a separate department, the fund amount is likely to increase.

"The department of biotechnology at the centre is also likely to allocate some funds for the functioning of this department at the state level," Ashok added.

"This apart, we are also setting up an International Institute of Life Sciences in the Central University of Hyderabad (HCU) at Gachibowli that will provide industry-specific consultancy and training services for start-up companies," Ashok said.

"This will enable companies to get their manpower trained at the institute, as industry-specific training is not provided at our existing educational institutions. Technical guidance will also be provided at the institute," he added.

"The construction work for the 30-acre institute has already started and it is likely to be ready by the end of 2006. We are also in the process of acquiring equipments for facilitating R&D at the institute," Ashok said.

"At present, directors and faculty are being finalised for the institute," he added.

"We have already released Rs 1 crore for this institute, and Dr Reddy's that is partnering with us in this venture will also raise some funds for this purpose," Ashok said. "Kota Harinarayana, vice-chancellor of HCU, will be managing the institute," he added.