On March 7, 2025, the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, hosted the ninth webinar in its Biofoundry and Bio-manufacturing Initiative series. The session focused on the “Bio-manufacturing of Biopolymers,” a key area under the BioE3 Policy, which was approved by the Union Cabinet in August 2024. The BioE3 Policy aims to position India as a global leader in bio-based innovations, with a strong emphasis on sustainable biomanufacturing across various sectors, including biopolymers. This webinar provided a platform for academics, industry leaders, startups, and researchers to discuss the latest advancements and opportunities in biopolymer production.
Dr. Vaishali Panjabi, Scientist ‘F’ at DBT, highlighted the vision of the BioE3 Policy to promote high-performance biomanufacturing. She noted that the ninth webinar in this series was dedicated to the “Biomanufacturing of Biopolymers” and emphasized that, with its strong academic and industrial capabilities, India is well-positioned to create a thriving ecosystem for cost-effective biopolymer production. She also discussed potential challenges in the sector and outlined the strengths and opportunities available to address these issues.
Dr. Binod Parameswaran from CSIR-NIIST, Thiruvananthapuram, elaborated on the major differences between biopolymers and their manufacturing processes, highlighting the challenges and limitations involved in biomanufacturing. He also shared insights into the key trends shaping the future of biopolymer research and development in India.
Dr. Ashvini Shete from Praj Industries Ltd. detailed the processes involved in biopolymer production, discussing the associated challenges. She emphasized the importance of strain and feedstock selection, process optimization, and downstream processing for successful biopolymer production. She also pointed out that India has the potential to develop a vibrant, cost-effective biopolymer production ecosystem, thanks to the country’s abundant feedstock and technology resources.
The session concluded with an engaging Q&A segment moderated by DBT and BIRAC officials. Participants actively interacted with the experts, addressing the challenges and opportunities in the bio-manufacturing of biopolymers.
(Source: PIB)
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