(a) whether the Government proposes an investment plan for the development of Agri-Biotech
Sector through Public Private Partnership;
(b) if so, the details in this regard;
(c) the name of the Departments likely to be involved jointly for the development of Agri-
Biotech Sector; and
(d) the manner in which farmers will be benefited by such investments?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)
(a) to (d): A scheme `Small Business Innovation & Research Initiative (SBIRI)` to promote
public private participation in various sectors of Biotechnology including agriculture
biotechnology for product development and to stimulate technological innovation, has been
initiated by the Department of Biotechnology during September, 2005. The development of
technologies for agriculture like improved plant varieties is intended to help farmers.