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CSIR-IIIM Launches BioNEST Incubator to Power Biotechnology Startups in North India
The opening of the BioNEST Incubator by CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) Jammu on 27th October will strengthen North India’s biotechnology ecosystem. It is located at the Industrial Biotech Park, Kathua. A newly created facility under the protection of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council BIRAC, Department of Biotechnology DBT, Government of India, aims at facilitating entrepreneurship, skilling and innovation in the bioeconomy.
The BioNEST Incubator has been launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh CSIR Vice President Union Minister of State for Science Technology. The launch happened during “BioInnovation Connect at Kathua”. The event saw the exchange of ideas and opportunities among scientists, decision-makers, startups, students and many more attendees.
CSIR-IIIM – Empowering Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director, CSIR-IIIM, said during the function that BioNEST Incubator Kathua would play an important role in benefitting the researchers, innovators and startups from Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Ladakh, Punjab and Haryana.
As stated by Dr. Ahmed, the BioNEST Incubation Center will be a strong platform for innovators and startups for incubation and skill development support. Further, he added, “It is all about Natural products, phytopharmaceuticals, agri-aroma products, and other bio-based innovations that can transform local economies.”
He also told young entrepreneurs, academicians and students to use modern facilities of the Biotech Park to turn their ideas into successful ventures.
BioInnovation Connect at Kathua – A Celebration of Ideas
The BioInnovation Connect at Kathua event included talks on BioE3 Policy, expert sessions, start-up meetings, and skill development programs etc. This space has facilitated joint explorations by farmers, scientists, academicians, business persons, industry representatives, etc., to find out opportunities for biotechnology led development in the area.
Biotech Park, Kathua – A Flagship of Northern Innovation
The first biotech park in Northern India, the Industrial Biotech Park at Ghatti Kathua, is a key project of the Union Ministry of Science and Technology. With the assistance of the Government of India, Jammu & Kashmir Science, Technology & Innovation Council (JKST&IC) & DBT, project in charge Dr. Jitendra Singh.
The park seeks to create a hub for bio-based startups and rural innovation for the young entrepreneurs of the next generation in biotechnology and related sectors. The project implementation partner is CSIR-IIIM, Jammu.
CSIR-IIIM – Advancing the BioE3 Vision through Economic, Environmental and Employment Solutions
The newly opened BioNEST Incubator is an important step towards inclusive growth of bioeconomy. It works to generate employment, endorse sustainable technologies, and strengthen links and partnerships between research, industry, and rural livelihoods by harmonising innovation, skill development and entrepreneurship.
The BioE3 Policy, which stresses using biotechnology for job creation, environmental protection, and economic growth, aligns with this approach.
A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
The event was organized under the guidance of Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR & Secretary to GoI, DSIR, and Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary of DBT, GoI. Dr. Zabeer Ahmed led the initiative along with his committed team of scientists and administrators at CSIR-IIIM, Jammu.
Together, they have made a significant move toward turning Kathua into a center of bioinnovation, linking research with practical applications.
Conclusion: A Milestone for North India’s Biotech Future
The opening of the BioNEST Incubator at Biotech Park, Kathua, represents a critical moment for biotechnology-driven entrepreneurship in North India. By integrating science with innovation and local talent, this initiative is poised to create new opportunities in agriculture, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, paving the way for growth and innovation in the region.
