Advanced Biology Programme

The Advanced Biology Programme at The Takshashila Institution facilitates dialogue on life science policy and develops actionable policies for the Indian bioeconomy.

About the Programme

The bioeconomy which currently accounts for 2.6% of India’s GDP, has to double this contribution by 2030. We define bioeconomy as “Technology-enabled development of value-added products or services from biological resources to accelerate the economy, in terms of GDP growth and employment; enable health security and create avenues for sustainable development.”

The Advanced Biology programme works with governmental agencies, industry and international agencies to identify policies that can uplift India’s bioeconomy, while safeguarding against potential risks. The programme aims to create a network of experts from diverse fields who are interested in life science related policies and facilitates a constructive life science policy dialogue in India.

Our Areas of Focus

Bioeconomy

This project centers around understanding what drives India’s bioeconomy - the opportunities, challenges, and pathways to achieving the $300 billion bioeconomy by 2030.

Read about our work on SWOT of Biotechnology in India.

Quad Biomanufacturing Hub in India

Gene Editing Policy

Our work proposes governance mechanisms that maximises benefits and minimises risks of gene editing technologies in human, animal, insect, plant and micro-organisms.

Read our work on analytical framework for using Gene Editing in Humans, analysis of using Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

Somatic Gene Editing

Life Science Policy

We analyse existing life science policies, comment on proposed government policies, and recommend policies to bridge gaps in policymaking.

Read our deposition to the Parliamentary Committee on S&T regarding the DNA Technology Bill, and submission to the BRICS Academic Forum on Science Cooperation in Science Cooperation in BRICS Countries.

Biosecurity

This work looks at the impact of new technologies on the risk of biosecurity threats and measures to strengthen biosecurity through multi-lateral treaties and domestic capacity building.

BWC Reform for Tackling Biowarfare

Biological Determinants of Policy

This emerging work studies how biological evolution encodes certain behaviours and therefore has to be accounted for in the formation of public policy.