Aimed at revamping the biotechnology sector in the state, the Kerala Biotechnology Commission (KBC) is gearing up to launch a series of new initiatives, including encouraging greater interaction of academia with private sector, fostering young scientists and promoting industry-linked biotechnology research.
Stating that biotechnology was gaining importance in all fields of science, P M Sudhakaran, the recently-appointed KBC director, said that the state was well placed to take the lead in innovation and research in biotechnology.
A road map was being prepared for implementing various initiatives, he said.
The commission would accord priority to encouraging young scientists, capacity-building and promoting industry-linked biotechnology research.
Noting that there was big scope for using biotechnology for rural development, he said that the commission would encourage biotech innovations that could bring positive changes to the lives of people in rural areas.
Sudhakaran said that KBC would identify the focus areas of investment and priority projects.
The commission will also address ethical, environmental, economic and social issues related to biotechnology practices.
Sudhakaran, who was recently made KBC director, is a winner of the prestigious J C Bose award and a Fellow of the National Academy of Medical Sciences.
He is the former Dean of Science at Kerala University and Professor of Biological Sciences at Central University, Kerala.
The Kerala Biotechnology Commission functions under the Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE).