THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The capital city, which houses many education and research and development institutions, has long been considered as the ideal location to be the hub of biotechnology industry. Now Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), an official agency for industrial and investment promotion, is planning to utilise the facilities to create an ecosystem for budding entrepreneurs in biotech and life sciences. It organised a 'Bio-entrepreneurship meet' which became a meeting point for budding entrepreneurs, successful startup entrepreneurs, academics and policy makers on Tuesday in the city. Industries Minister E P Jayarajan during the inaugural function said the state will extend all support to the incubation facility by KSIDC.
The seminar discussed ways to facilitate the entrepreneurial ambitions of science students. Thiruvananthapuram a got a special mention in the talks. "Indian biotechnology sector is one of the fastest growing knowledge-based sectors in India and is expected to play a key role in shaping India's rapidly developing economy. With numerous comparative advantages in terms of research and development (R&D) facilities, knowledge, skills, and cost effectiveness, the biotechnology industry in India has immense potential to emerge as a global key player. With state-of the-art facilities, Thiruvananthapuram can evolve as a hub of industry and R&D in biotechnology and life science," said Dr M Beena, managing director of KSIDC. Her view was supported by C Balagopal who founded Terumo Penpol.
"Entrepreneurs need to change their perception about the state. Kerala has many advantages. It is the only state which has the potential to develop like South Korea," said Balagopal. He listed out at least 10 biotech companies based in Kerala which made it big in the international market. Students identify Vilappilshala with a defunct waste treatment plant. But not many know about the blood bag making company with over 1,000 employees doing business in over 50 companies, said Balagopal. Dr Taslimarif Saiyed, director and COO of Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms said this is a good chance for budding entrepreneurs to take the plunge. KSIDC provided funds to set up a technology business incubator in medical devices sector at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences & Technology.