The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on space biotechnology, space bio-manufacturing, and bioastronautics. This collaboration aims to integrate biotechnology with space technology, fostering innovation in human health research, novel pharmaceuticals, biotherapeutics, regenerative medicine, and bio-based technologies for efficient waste management.
The partnership will focus on microgravity experiments, including the impact of microgravity on edible algae, the growth of cyanobacteria with urea in space, and research on supplements to prevent muscle loss in microgravity. These experiments are part of the upcoming Axiom-4 mission and the Gaganyaan mission, India's first crewed space mission.
This collaboration is expected to spur innovation and development in the fields of human health research, bio-manufacturing, and bioastronautics, benefiting both national space programs and societal applications.
India is set to establish its own space station, named Bharatiya Antariksh Station, by 2035. This ambitious project was announced by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, following a this MoU between ISRO and the DBT, to integrate biotechnology with space technology, fostering a new era of scientific innovation.
The BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy is another key initiative outlined in the MoU. This policy aims to foster high-performance biomanufacturing in the country, with a goal of reaching a $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030.
@DBTIndia and @isro signed the #MoU to work
— Department of Biotechnology (@DBTIndia) October 30, 2024
together on Space Biotechnology, Space Biomanufacturing, & Bioastronautics. Together we are dedicated to achieve remarkable advancements in finding sustainable solutions. #InnovationCollaboration @DrJitendraSingh @rajesh_gokhale pic.twitter.com/HySYxQF1RB
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