Govt News

India Boosts Indigenous Biotech

In a major boost to India’s biotechnology and bio-based manufacturing sector, the Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has extended financial support to M/s K. N. Biosciences (India) Private Limited, Hyderabad, for the commercialisation of an indigenous technology to produce C-Phycocyanin from Spirulina.

 

C-Phycocyanin is a high-value natural blue pigment-protein extracted from Spirulina and is widely used as a natural food colourant, nutraceutical ingredient, cosmetic additive, pharmaceutical component, and fluorescent biomarker in biomedical research. With the global demand for natural pigments rising steadily, the project is expected to reduce India’s dependence on imports while strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities.

 

The supported technology enables the production of high-purity C-Phycocyanin through an indigenous process that ensures better quality, improved yield, and cost-effective manufacturing. Commercialisation of this technology will help establish a reliable domestic supply chain and create opportunities for export of value-added biotechnology products.

 

The initiative is expected to promote sustainable utilisation of Spirulina, a nutrient-rich microalgae known for its environmental and health benefits. By leveraging indigenous research and innovation, the project will encourage the development of environmentally friendly bioproducts and contribute to India’s growing bioeconomy.

 

The project is also likely to generate skilled employment, support local biotechnology enterprises, and strengthen collaboration between research institutions and industry. It aligns with the Government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat by fostering innovation-driven manufacturing and promoting indigenous technologies with global commercial potential.

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