Bhubaneswar: In an attempt to harness the potential of biotechnology in addressing pressing societal and developmental issues, the state govt has asked all departments and district administrations to identify problem statements that could be solved through biotechnology-based innovations.In a recent letter issued to all additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries, commissioner-cum-secretaries, secretaries and district collectors, additional chief secretary of the science and technology department, Chithra Arumugam, stated, “The department recognises the immense potential of biotechnology in creating high-impact solutions to societal challenges. The department is working towards building a robust biotechnology ecosystem that connects research and innovation with industry while strengthening Odisha’s bio-economy and future-ready growth sectors.” As part of this initiative, departments and district administrations have been requested to identify complex developmental challenges that may be addressed through biotechnology interventions. They have also been encouraged to suggest possible solutions wherever feasible.The move is aimed at promoting participatory and collaborative governance by involving various departments and districts in shaping Odisha’s biotechnology-driven innovation ecosystem, she said.
