Guwahati: The biomanufacturing industry has the potential to drive economic growth and support sustainable development. Especially in Northeast India, this field is promising due to the region's rich biodiversity. With its diverse flora and fauna, the Northeast offers an excellent foundation for developing biomanufacturing ventures in pharmaceuticals, bioenergy, and agro-biotechnology.
Although the industry is still developing, increasing interest from start-ups, government programmes, and private investments indicates significant future growth. With strategic planning, alignment of resources, and improved infrastructure, the region could harness its potential to address global challenges like climate change.
Business North East (BNE) conducted an exclusive interview with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of North East Gas Distribution Company Limited, S K Barua, who highlighted the potential of the biomanufacturing industry in the northeastern region, including Assam.
Excerpts from the interview are as follows:
BNE: What opportunities exist for the biomanufacturing industry in Northeast India?
S K Barua: The region's rich biodiversity provides a strong foundation for biomanufacturing. Its abundant natural resources create numerous opportunities for start-ups and other ventures.
BNE: Which biomanufacturing sector in the region looks most promising?
S K Barua: The pharmaceutical sector looks particularly promising. Although biomanufacturing requires substantial investment and research, support from organisations such as DBT, BIRAC, NEDFi, and Numaligarh Refinery Limited is fostering the industry's growth in the Northeast.
BNE: How does the region rank in terms of biodiversity?
S K Barua: Within India, Northeast India is known for its exceptional biodiversity. While the region's bio-resources remain underutilised, interest from major companies and investment-focused events like Advantage Assam 2.0 is expected to unlock its potential.
BNE: What types of jobs might biomanufacturing start-ups create?
S K Barua: Initially, start-ups often involve small teams. As these businesses expand and commercialise, they are likely to generate diverse employment opportunities across the region.
BNE: What research and development efforts are taking place in Northeast India?
S K Barua: Funding is available from organisations such as DBT, but there is a need to enhance R&D efforts in the region. Expanding the presence of research centres and fostering innovation will be critical for the sector's success.
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BNE: How can investors be attracted to this sector?
S K Barua: Investors prioritise stability, support, and infrastructure. With initiatives such as Advantage Assam 2.0, government incentives, and the region's natural resources, Northeast India is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for biomanufacturing investments.
BNE: What is required to start a biomanufacturing venture?
S K Barua: There are no strict prerequisites. Anyone with a viable idea involving bio-resources can enter this field. For example, producing biogas from waste materials such as municipal waste, Napier grass, or cattle dung is gaining attention, with new facilities already established in Tezpur and Guwahati.
BNE: What is the outlook for biomanufacturing in the region?
S K Barua: Over the next decade, biomanufacturing will likely play a significant role in the region's economy, driving sustainable development and creating new opportunities.
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