IIT Mandi Launches BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre to Propel Biotechnology and Healthcare Innovation in the Himalayan Region.
Shimla:
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi has unveiled the BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre, a new initiative backed by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC). With an initial investment of Rs. 5 crore, this center is designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the biotechnology and healthcare sectors, addressing both local and global challenges through its strategic location and resources.
The BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre is established to create a specialized incubation hub focused on advancing biotechnology and healthcare solutions. Situated in the unique Himalayan region, the center aims to leverage IIT Mandi’s access to diverse biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge to tackle health and ecological issues.
Key Focus Areas:
1. Healthcare Innovation: The center will work on developing new solutions for disease detection, affordable healthcare services, medical devices, prosthetics, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
2. Biotechnology: Research will explore new medical science avenues, including drug discovery, biotechnology applications, bioactive compounds, supplements, and functional foods aimed at improving health and wellness.
The BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre is equipped with advanced research and development infrastructure, supporting multidisciplinary innovation by integrating expertise from engineering, biological sciences, and healthcare. The center’s location in Himachal Pradesh offers advantages such as rich biodiversity and access to traditional medicinal knowledge, which are crucial for its research initiatives.
The center will also play a vital role in bolstering the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Himalayan region. It will provide crucial support to startups through funding, mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. By promoting innovation and collaboration, BioNEST aims to develop groundbreaking solutions for both regional and global health challenges.
Dr. Satvasheel Ramesh Powar, Faculty-in-charge of IIT Mandi Catalyst, emphasized the center’s potential impact, stating, “The BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre will drive significant economic opportunities by supporting biotechnology and healthcare ventures that create jobs and foster regional development. The center will enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange among entrepreneurs, investors, industry partners, and academic institutions. Furthermore, it is committed to promoting sustainable development through environmentally friendly technologies and solutions.”
The establishment of the BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre marks a significant step towards cultivating a vibrant ecosystem for biotechnology innovation. By providing cutting-edge infrastructure and expert mentorship, this initiative aims to address pressing healthcare and environmental challenges, driving both regional and global advancements in the field.
