a) whether the Government proposes to work on a national policy on synthetic biology, an emerging science that deals with engineering life forms for a wide range of applications from making designer medicines to foods; and
b) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) OF
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND EARTH SCIENCES
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH)
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(a) & (b) The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has implemented a study under which a document ‘Foresight paper on Synthetic Biology’ developed based on consultation with experts from industry, academia and research organizations. This study is focused on assessment of status and trends of synthetic biology based research and development in India and its application in the areas of agriculture,food, health, bioinformatics and related aspects.The study also aimed to focus on policy and regulatory aspects supporting its future developments and increasing awareness among scientists, policy makers and general public on national priorities and intentions to actively pursue synthetic biology research, development and deployment. In future, DBT would like to develop National Policy on Synthetic Biology in consultation with relevant stakeholders.
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