Biotechnology Policy of Government of Tamilnadu

Tamil Nadu has emerged as a front ranking State in attracting investments. The growth in knowledge-based industries in the State in recent years has been phenomenal. The export of software from the State which was only Rs. 37 crores in 1995-96 has reached Rs. 1,914 crores in 1999-2000. In order to consolidate these gains and carry the State forward in the path of economic development, the Government of Tamil Nadu has decided to focus on another knowledge-based industry, i.e. Biotechnology.

There is a growing realization world over that Biotechnology along with Information Technology is going to be the major thrust area in the new millennium. With the announcement of the Human Genome sequence and the progress made in genetic engineering in the last two decades, Biotechnology as an industrial activity is set to increase exponentially in the future. Recognising this trend, Dr. M. Karunanidhi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu announced in his Budget Speech for the year 2000-2001 that a Biotechnology Policy for the State will be formulated and implemented. As a follow-up of this, a High Level Committee under the Chairmanship of the eminent scientist Dr, M.S. Swaminathan was constituted to give recommendations for a Biotechnology Policy for the economic development of Tamil Nadu. The Report of the above Committee has been received. On the basis of this Report and further examination of all related aspects, the Government of Tamil Nadu has decided to announce a Biotechnology Policy.

Tamilnadu is rich in bioresources. The variety of geographical terrains in the State provides tremendous biodiversity rarely seen in any other single State. The forest , agricultural and plant resource base of the State are both large and diverse and represent great market opportunity for biotechnology products. There are more than 5,000 species of flowering plants and the forest cover in the State spreads over 22,500 sq. kms. The State also has one of the largest coastlines in the country which again presents opportunities for Marine biotechnology. The state is also fortunate to have a pool of experts in various areas of Biotechnology with experience in commercialization of Biotech products. Tamil Nadu is thus well placed in terms of human resources to exploit the opportunities in Biotechnology.

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