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How Women Can Play an Important Role in the Biomanufacturing Industry? Experts Weigh In

Priyanka Chakrabarty , January 30, 2025
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Guwahati: Assam is positioning itself as a frontrunner in the biomanufacturing industry, leveraging its rich bio-resources and strategic location in line with India’s Act East Policy. Now, experts and industry leaders feel that this growing sector should see more women participating.

The state government is introducing initiatives like bio-foundries and bio-manufacturing hubs to boost local industries and foster innovation. These efforts were highlighted at the 1st International Biomanufacturing Summit, hosted by the Northeast India Scientific and Entrepreneurial Diaspora (NEISED) in January 2025.

With the biotechnology sector in India offering significant employment opportunities, particularly for women—who constitute approximately 30% of the industry workforce—experts believe Assam’s biomanufacturing initiatives could empower women through diverse job prospects and entrepreneurship opportunities.

The recent growth of Assam’s biomanufacturing sector has ignited conversations about the critical role women can play in this burgeoning industry. Experts point to the region’s agrarian economy as a unique foundation for integrating women into the biomanufacturing workforce.

“Women can play a pivotal role in this industry. It doesn’t require extensive training as most of the products are agriculture-based. Women only need to dedicate more time to it,” said Jonali Chakrabarty, winner of the Tejaswini Assam Ideathon 2024, whose vermicompost venture has gained widespread recognition.

S.K. Baruah, CEO of North East Gas Distribution, described biomanufacturing as "the sunrise sector in the region," emphasising its immense revenue potential for entrepreneurs.

Women have already demonstrated their ability to lead in this sector by driving exploration, innovation, leadership, sustainability, and workforce diversity. From heading biotech firms to influencing global policies, women’s contributions are shaping sustainable production methods and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

ALSO READ: Northeast Eyes Biomanufacturing Boom With Biodiversity Edge, Strategic Investments

The biomanufacturing sector offers women avenues in STEM education, entrepreneurship, and addressing global challenges like vaccine production, biofuel development, and food security. Female leaders are playing key roles in shaping policies and initiatives promoting sustainability.

However, challenges persist. Gender gaps in STEM careers, workplace bias, limited mentorship, and work-life balance remain significant hurdles. To address these, experts recommend scholarships, networking platforms like Women in Bio (WIB), supportive government policies, and inclusion programs to level the playing field.

ALSO READ: Assam Set To Lead Biomanufacturing Revolution, Says Chief Secretary Ravi Kota

Assam has already witnessed success in women-led enterprises, such as the eri silk production initiative by Bosco Reach Out, which has empowered over 500 women. Similar models could be applied to biomanufacturing by blending traditional crafts with modern biotechnology.

The Indian government’s BioE3 policy—focusing on biotechnology for the economy, environment, and employment—provides women with access to resources, funding, and training programs to innovate in biomanufacturing.

Participation in platforms like the International Biomanufacturing Summit 2025 in Guwahati offers women opportunities to gain insights, network, and take the lead in transforming Assam into a biomanufacturing hub.

With its abundant resources and women’s growing involvement, Assam’s biomanufacturing sector is poised to drive economic growth, foster technological advancements, and create a sustainable future.