Karnataka to unveil revised biotech policy

Karnataka government would unveil its revised biotech (BT) policy in the next 20 days, announced State Minister for Information, IT and BT Katta Subramanya Naidu.  

The revised policy would incorporate recommendations made by the state's vision group on BT led by Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, he said at the inaugural function of Bangalore Bio 2009, an exhibition showcasing the biotech industry.   

Karnataka was the first state to announce Millennium biotech policy in 2001. The revised policy would have incentives for the sector, a thrust in creation of BT infrastructure, enhancing skills to suit industry demands and creating and nurturing centres of excellence.   

"Karnataka would like to attract more investments in tier two and tier three cities", he added and is pushing for development of these cities.   

In pursuance of these objectives it proposes to set up exclusive Biotechnology (BT) parks such as agri-biotech at Dharwad at an estimated cost of Rs 30 crore, Marine BT at Mangalore (Rs 70 Cr), Animal House at Bidar (Rs 30 cr), Netura and Phyto-pharmaceuticals biotech at Mysore (Rs 110 cr).   

These biotech parks would be developed in collaboration with institutions like UAS-Dharad, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries University, Bidar and CFTRI, Mysore. He also informed that the proposal is awaiting cabinet approval.