(a) the number of applications pending with the department of Biotechnology for approval for more than a year;
(b) whether any streamlined system has been evolved;
(c) if so, the reasons for the delay; and
(d) the steps proposed to create a transparent and efficient system of processing of applications connected with biotechnology?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (SHRI BACHI SINGH RAWAT)
(a) to (d) As per the records, no applications for research funding are pending without action with the
Department of Biotechnology, for more than a year. However, after the proposal is recommended by the .expert
committee, some procedural formalities have to be completed before the final financial approval is
accorded. The Department has a Project Registry Cell, which maintains the records of applications received
and the decisions taken on these for further processing. The delays, if any are due to receipt of
incomplete applications and not adequate numbers, non-receipt of clarifications from applicants or sometime
late receipt of responses from expert referees. There is a regular review done by the Department to have
speedy disposal of various proposals. A database of approved Biotechnology projects has been made publicly
available through the DBT website. There are sixteen expert task forces and one Biotechnology Research and
Promotion Committee, which meet to recommend or, reject proposals. Site visits and presentations to the
Task Force are the regular features for evaluation of project based on their scientific merits. A
transparent and efficient system has been established which is improved from time to time.