Karnataka is considering a specific financing and support system for biotechnology businesses as it aims to enhance biomanufacturing capabilities and boost the implementation of AI throughout the industry.

The measures were discussed by the Karnataka Government during the 64th session of the Vision Group on Biotechnology (VGBT) on Tuesday.

The meeting, led by Dr Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson and Founder of Biocon Ltd, assessed Karnataka’s biotechnology landscape and highlighted key priorities for fostering innovation, commercialization, manufacturing, talent development, and investment.

Members emphasized the growing intersection of AI, quantum technologies, and life sciences. They talked about increasing AI implementation in research, diagnostics, drug development, genomics, personalized medicine, and healthcare.

“Karnataka has established one of the most robust biotechnology ecosystems in India, backed by leading research institutions, industry expertise, and a dynamic startup culture,” stated Mazumdar-Shaw.

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"While moving into the next stage of growth, we need to enhance systems that facilitate translational research, commercialization, and scaling up,” she remarked.

She mentioned that biotechnology startups need “patient capital, robust industry collaborations, and sustained backing,” urging for specific investment strategies for the field.

A primary emphasis of the meeting was to establish a state-level structure that aids biotechnology businesses via financial assistance, mentorship, regulatory advice, and commercialization support.

Members additionally talked about establishing a specialized biotechnology support system based on national innovation projects and enhancing access to growth funding by collaborating with venture capitalists, industry participants, and strategic investors.

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The Vision Group pinpointed key focus areas for next year, such as AI-driven biotechnology, enhancement of bio-manufacturing skills, financial backing, regulatory strategies, marine biotechnology, and workforce advancement.

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Dr. N Manjula, Secretary of the Department of Electronics, IT, BT, and Science & Technology, stated that the government is committed to enhancing the biotechnology value chain.