Biotechnology Policy – West Bengal
1. INTRODUCTION
Biotechnology has been described as the last great technical innovation of
mankind in the century we have just left behind. It covers a wide range of scientific and
technological activities that include the isolation and purification of any targeted DNA, RNA,
proteins, enzymes etc.; cloning and amplification of genes; construction of stream processing
methods; production of genetically modified organisms etc. Human intervention in gene
technology has enabled the production of organisms which are either self-replicating or can
replicate via host organism. The contribution of Biotechnology to the world economics appears
to be quite significant as it has already found vast applications in diverse areas like healthcare,
agriculture, industrial product development and environmental management. There are several
examples of the use of the recombinant products in health care management. Introduction of
transgenic plants and crops in commercial agriculture is being considered with great emphasis
in many parts of the world. Application of Biotechnology for the production of transgenic
plants is primarily meant for higher yield potentials, increased resistance to stress and better
crops. Plant tissue culture is now capable of producing a large number of clones with specific
traits and the technique when applied in conjunction with transgenic plant development by gene
technology, will be able to produce better crop varieties in the shortest possible time.
Looking at the world scenario, it is observed that since the first introduction of viral
resistant tobacco by China in 1990, a good number of transgenic crops are so far approved by
the countries around the world. Globally, more than 60 commercially important plants
including maize, cotton, tomato, potato, rice, wheat, papya etc. have been utilised for
incorporating transgenic traits. New varieties of rice having 50% excess yield is already
incorporated with Afro-Asian strains and are rich in protein. They are more tolerant to disease,
drought and acidic soil. The pro-vitamin A enriched Indian rice varieties is expected to go a
long way to help the poor farmers. In fact the pro-vitamin A enriched golden rice is now
commonly found in several Asian countries. A number of enzyme based textile products have
already become the claimants of being processed in an eco-friendly manner without using any
hazardous chemical. The chemical like jasmonic acid to trigger the self-defence system in
plants against pests and environmental stresses is now well known. Production of transgenic
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plants with the ability of overproducing these chemicals is under way. There has been a notable
trend in DNA finger printing to detect spurious seeds. Different strains of marine algae are
already cultured, extracted and encapsulated for being used as natural sources of vitamins. It
has now become very important to know the protein-protein interaction for understanding the
specific disease pathway and therefore, technology development to the extent of combining
genomics with proteomics in a single step is in the offing. Allosteric ribozyme technology is
already developed for making protein in connection with drug development. Many health care
food products with fungi as the main ingredient are already developed in China, the world's
largest fungi producing country. The advent of molecular diagnostics has made it possible to
detect microbial contamination too.
Though the research and development work in the field of Biotechnology has been quite
remarkable, the concomitant growth of biotechnology industries has remained far from being
satisfactory. This has resulted in an under-utilisation of knowledge and manpower already
created in this area. Considering the high return on investment, it is the high time to take up a
suitable strategy for furthering Biotech activities in the field of health care, agriculture, medical
appliances, diagnostics and environment protection.
2.Possibilities of Application of Biotechnology in West Bengal
Over the past 25 years, implementation of rural land reform programme in West Bengal
has unleashed an economic resurgence which is expected to propel its rapid stride into a highly
industrialized state. The policy envisaged here would ensure that all sections of our society are
equal partners in the march towards progress. Twentieth century gave birth to two
technological revolutions in the areas of Information Technology and Biotechnology. These
two are expected to touch every sphere of human activity.
Information Technology has
already matured and has given rise to huge opportunities for revenue generation and jobs.
However, before this waive begins to subside, the state should be ready for growth in another
quarter so that the natural and human resources of West Bengal are utilized to their fullest
potential. Hence the need of the hour is to harness these resources for developmental activity
through a visionary policy in the area of Biotechnology. It should be emphasized that the
strengths of West Bengal lie in its highly successful agricultural sector. It also has untapped
unique resources in the mangroves unlike any other part of the country. Focusing on these
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strengths, a Biotechnology vision statement for West Bengal has been developed to enhance
and organize the existing strengths and strengthen the weaker but potentially important
development programs.
Our mission is to ensure scientific and technological empowerment of West Bengal's
human resources.
We aim at creating a strong infrastructure both for research and
commercialisation. We intend to launch a major well directed effort for generation of products,
processes and technologies to enhance the cost effectiveness and productivity of agriculture,
modern medicine, pollution control, biodiversity conservation and bio-industrial development.
2.1. West Bengal – A Bird's eye view of the positive aspects:
2.1.1 Quality of competent R & D Institutions:
The important advantage of initiating any scientific and technical endeavour in West
Bengal is the availability of a good number of Research and Development Organisations
with a tradition of high quality basic as well as applied research. Of them, many have
already existing infrastructure and teams of highly competent scientists and technologists
having exquisite achievements in Biotechnology and allied fields. Institutions deserving
mention in this context are listed below :
Indian Institute of Chemical Biology

Bose Institute

Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science

Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur

Indian Statistical Institute

Calcutta University

Jadavpur University

Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya

Visva-Bharati University

Kalyani University

North Bengal University

Burdwan University

Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine
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
All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health

University of Fishery and Animal Husbandry
2.1.2 Availability of high quality of human resources:
West Bengal, often described as the intellectual epicentre of India, is well-known for
the high quality of human resource it holds. Apart from stalwarts in different fields of
natural as well as social sciences, the state has a high concentration of competent skilled
manpower suitable for working in upcoming Biotechnology ventures. The State has a
good network of scientific non-government organisations who had been implementing
the task of popularising science among the people in general. The State Government
with its decentralised developmental institutions is capable of utilising the combined
strength of the people's science organisations in generating awareness of the utilities of
Biotechnology in agriculture among the farmers so as to create an environment
demanding the growth of agricultural biotechnology. As such, the state does also have
the qualitative ability to tune up its human resource especially in the agriculture sector.
2.1.3
Development in the agrarian sector in the last few decades:
The State Government has effectively implemented land reforms in the last few
decades. Simultaneously, it has developed a well-established Panchayat System
whereby it has been possible to achieve notable success in running a live, active and
interacting institutional framework of decentralised planning and development. The
Panchayaty institutions, through their protracted efforts of overall development, have
tangibly contributed in improving road network and other infrastructure facilities in
rural West Bengal. Through land reforms and related follow-up activities, it has been
possible to establish relations of production in agriculture suitable for introduction of
new and potent upcoming technologies.
2.1.4 Upcoming Industrial Scenario of West Bengal :
The State Government announced Policy Resolutions on Industry in 1994. Since then,
sustained endeavours for facilitating rapid industrialisation have been made. The State
being highly rich in bioresources, being rich in trained and resourceful manpower in
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chemical, pharmaceutical and healthcare industries and being the gateway to various
South-East Asian countries, has its natural potential for developing Biotech Industries
which have been declared as a high priority sector by the Govt. of West Bengal.
3.
Aims & Objectives of Biotechnology Policy
3.1.
Objectives :
3.1.1. Conservation of bio-diversity through mapping and sustainable use of bio-resources.
3.1.2. To encourage and facilitate introduction of Biotechnology at the grass-root level to
strengthen agricultural economy of the state.
3.1.3. To encourage all agro-based Biotechnological activities for the promotion of village
level industries in the state.
3.1.4. To spread general awareness for optimum utilisation of
agriculture sector.
Biotechnology in the
3.1.5. To support all employment generating activities in the field of Biotechnology industry.
3.1.6. To create a "Centre of Excellence for Biotechnology" as a high quality support service
to Biotech Industries.
3.1.7. To create or to act as a catalyst for creating high quality infrastructure for Biotech
Industries e.g. Biotechnology parks in different parts of the state.
3.1.8. To facilitate development of human resources at different levels in the field of
Biotechnology.
3.1.9. To bring potentials of all relevant departments of the State Government under one
umbrella of coordination so that Government efforts on Biotechnology can be
consolidated. The Government undertakings having potentials in this area shall also be
gradually taken into this umbrella.
3.1.10. To create congenial environment for Biotech Industry through process simplification in
the clearance of commercial biotechnology projects.
3.1.11. To attract private investment for perceptible growth in Biotechnological industries.
3.1.12. To promote the field of Bioinformatics and to address the issues related to IPR
protection, Bio-safety, Bio-ethics etc.
3.1.13. To facilitate the flow of venture capital funds and bank credit to Biotech companies.
3.1.14. To extend fiscal incentives and concessions to Biotechnology Industry.
3.1.15. To provide an appropriate institutional framework to achieve the above objectives.
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3.1.16. To formulate document on vision for the next ten years to fulfil the kernel of the policy.
3.1.17. To draw an action plan for the next five years to improve the quality of life through
appropriate Biotechnology.
3.2. Mapping of Bio-resources of West Bengal:
3.2.1. To take major initiatives in inventorisation and mapping of the bioresources within the
state. This will be done within the next five years with the help of the universities,
undergraduate colleges, schools, research institutions, NGO's and private companies.
3.2.2. To identify specific biosphere zones and ensure sustainable exploitation of the
bioresources from these regions while maintaining ecological balance and conservation
of biodiversity.
3.2.3. Molecular characterization and bio-prospecting of indigenous resources.
3.2.4. To highlight natural and unique reserves in the mangroves, forests, marine life, fresh
water resources and develop them further, using Biotechnology, for maximal benefit.
3.2.5. To use specialised technology for enhancing sericulture and improving silk and tussar
quality through Biotechnology.
3.3
Research & Development in Biotechnology:
In view of the fact that West Bengal has a good number of R & D institutions with
excellent expertise and manpower quality, it is considered worthwhile to concentrate further on
the development of R & D facilities in the area of Biotechnology. The effort shall consist of :-
3.3.1. Setting up of new R & D facilities in the universities for Biotech research and
development.
3.3.2. Encouraging institutions and universities to take up contract research in field of
Biotechnology on behalf of private and public sector companies.
3.3.3. Providing requisite infrastructure and support services for private sector companies to
take up contract research.
3.3.4. Creating conditions for furtherance of collaborative research with internationally
reputed R & D organisations
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3.4
Development of Infrastructure:
In order to enhance the socially relevant Biotech activities, the Government of West
Bengal will be focussed on the development of adequate infrastructure within the state. In the
process, the Government will act :
3.4.1. To develop selected high quality infrastructure through institution of Biotech Park,
Agritech Park, Ecology Park, Bioinformatics Park in different regions of the state. Type
and quality of the infrastructure will be chosen considering different agro-climatic,
agro-economic and other socio-economic parameters specific for a region.
3.4.2. To ensure better coordination between different R&D organisations working in the area
of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics.
3.4.3. To encourage organisations involved in entrepreneurship development programmes to
enter partnerships with private companies for manufacture, marketing and transfer of
technology so that the products of Biotechnology research can be brought to the
common man.
3.4.4. To create an environment for growth of Biotech Industry by opening up the locked
resources in the universities and research institutions, through entrepreneurship
development programme.
3.4.5. To set up service centres either by the government or in partnership with business
groups for diagnosis of diseases by sophisticated methods.
3.4.6. To implement the fruits of Biotechnological development in the health sector by
promoting interaction between medical professionals and scientists in allied fields.
3.4.7. To set up a core facility for Genomics, Proteomics, Bioinformatics which may be used
by research and industry organizations on payment of fees.
3.4.8. To create infrastructure support for the implementation of grass-root level rural
Biotechnology programmes at the district level highlighting the needs of agriculture,
animal husbandry, fisheries, waste management, biomass development for animal,
poultry, fish etc.
3.4.9. To create central facilities for preservation, storage of value added agricultural products
to ensure effective marketing strategy for the products of agricultural Biotechnology.
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3.5.
Biotechnology Park
The Government of West Bengal intends to promote the creation of Biotechnology
parks within the State.
3.5.1. Biotechnology Park will act as an instrument to develop Biotech industries for socioeconomic development of the state.
3.5.2. This will be a combined venture of industries, academia and government with clearly
specified responsibilities of each. It will be a self-sustaining setup for business startup
support, business attraction and technology support in areas of Biotechnology.
3.5.3. The strategy of creating such Biotech park is to make up a common ground for the
development of prospective technologies and the commercialisation of ventures with
minimum gestation time.
3.5.4. In accordance with the strength of the State of West Bengal the major thrust in such
Biotech parks will be given towards Agri-Biotechnology and Biopharmaceuticals. The
park will act as an incubator and will lead to the development of Biotech industries,
improvement in quality of life, environmental improvement, employment generation
and finally sustainable development in rural sectors.
3.5.5. The park will contain industrial, commercial and R & D infrastructure, developed plots
of land, power, water and telecom facilities for users. The parks will act as the
technology providers to the small scale Biotech industries which will be housed within
the park. These will lend R & D support to the prospective entrepreneurs. It will provide
training to the farmers in order to enable them to adopt the new technological activities.
The parks will further provide marketing support to the users.
3.5.6. In order that the parks appear attractive to the Biotech industries, the Government of
West Bengal will evolve and set up effective administrative mechanisms so that quick
approvals under various statutes are duly facilitated.
3.6.
Centre of Excellence
To cope with the rapid advancement in the field of Biotechnology the state will create a
Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology which will have the state-of-the-art infrastructure for
R & D activities by skilled professionals. A well thought mechanism shall be evolved for
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development of trained manpower of all categories and the maintenance of linkage with all the
existing academic and research institutions, Govt. departments, voluntary organisations to aid
in functions pertaining to Biotech activities. The Centre of Excellence will have online access
to major institutes and commercial houses of the country. It will further render services
concerning the management of the state initiatives in Biotech activities. The Centre of
Excellence will also house a nodal Bio-informatics centre having active linkage with small and
large zonal Biotechnology parks for dissemination of relevant information to the aforesaid
parks. A global advisory network in agriculture related Biotechnology will be made, and this
will operate from within the proposed Centre of Excellence. The proposed Centre of Excellence
for Biotechnology will take all initiatives for development of new Biotech products,
development of new processing techniques and formulating methodologies for certification of
Biotech produces within the state of West Bengal.
3.7.
Core facilities in genomics, bioinformatics etc.
3.7.1. Government of West Bengal will promote creation of facilities for the identification of
the genetic defects in the human body in order to rectify them by gene therapy.
3.7.2. The State Government will assist in getting the genetic profile of the people in Indian
Sub-continent, specially in West Bengal so as to help the upcoming research companies
in evaluating the appropriate gene therapy models.
3.7.3. State Government will act as facilitator for creation of facilities for molecular biology
experimentations useful to diagnostics.
3.7.4. The Government will take all measures to ensure development of facilities which would
help to create DNA polymorphism maps and databases for the people of West Bengal
and would also promote functional genomics.
3.7.5. Bioinformatics capability for analytical and computational ability to infer gene function,
based on sequence informatics, will be enhanced.
3.7.6. Government shall assist in the development of new algorithms, software and tools for
data mining and warehousing applications.
3.7.7. The State Government will encourage the establishment of small software groups and
companies for developing competence to identify the useful genes.
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3.7.8. Government of West Bengal will facilitate the setting up of dedicated network centres
for developing data warehouses, data design and mining from single and multiple
databases.
3.7.9. Development of strong Bioinformatics machinery for exploitation of microbial genome
information will be encouraged. The Government intends to develop an institutional
framework of autonomous Bioinformatics centres within the State of West Bengal.
3.7.10. Training of personnel will be given priority in order to get adequate number of experts
in Bioinformatics within a reasonable short time.
3.8.
Manpower Development
Biotechnology activities being highly knowledge-based, the Government of West
Bengal will continuously strive for development of its human resources in all facets. The State
Government is going to set up a Centre of Excellence for Biotechnology in order that advanced
training at Post Graduate levels and above can be imparted. Advanced research will be
promoted through the use of state of the art infrastructure that will be created within this Centre
of Excellence.
Already a few Post graduate courses are running in various universities of the state.
Also imparting education at B.Tech. level has already started in different institutes of the state.
The state government will encourage introduction of more such courses at the graduate and
post graduate level so as to generate sufficient number of skilled personnel to take up the
challenge in the emerging fields of Biotechnology. The universities / institutions already active
in the field of education and research in Biotechnology will be provided adequate support in the
pursuit of excellence. The state government will also encourage the universities / institutions to
build active linkage with internationally reputed institutes.
The state government will promote the setting up of more autonomous institutes under
private participation for achieving excellence in specialised areas. To ensure better coordination
among different R & D organisations such as IICB, Bose Institute, NICED, Calcutta
University, Jadavpur University and others working in the field of Biotechnology and
Bioinformatics, the Government of West Bengal will extend support to these institutes for
entering into partnerships with private companies for manufacture, marketing and transfer of
technology so that the products of Biotechnology research can be brought to the common man.
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The Government will take adequate initiative in other manpower development aspects in order
to :
3.8.1. further strengthen the human resource development programme by including
components of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics to the existing Life Science teaching
courses both at the undergraduate and post-graduate level.
3.8.2. enable research institutes, colleges, universities, NGOs and private organisations to
undertake technicians/technology training courses for specific requirements.
3.8.3. further conduct of popularisation and awareness campaigns on the uses of
biotechnology in rural and urban areas through lectures, films, TV programmes and
through the use of Satellite Communication Channels.
3.8.4. introduce short term courses incorporating Biotechnology with Business Management
in the curricula of management and business schools.
3.8.5. introduce law courses emphasizing Bio-safety, Bio-ethics, Intellectual Property Rights
(IPR) for biotechnology industry.
3.8.6. introduce diploma and certificate courses ( after 10 +2 higher secondary, CBSE, ISC )
for training biotechnology personnel in the fields of agriculture, animal husbandry,
recombinant DNA technology to be initiated by the state and private sector.
3.8.7. encourage different NGOs and private institutes to conduct effective farmer’s training
programmes to enable them to make use of Agri-biotechnology.
4.
TASKS AHEAD
4.1.
Agriculture:
4.1.1. Development of transgenics of cereal crops like rice, braqssica, chickpea, potato,
tomato, other vegetables, large scale seed production, development of hybrid seeds of
nutritionally enhanced vegetables (more protein content, higher lysine content) with
higher yields.
4.1.2. Development of edible vaccines in plants and fruits such as banana.
4.1.3. Improving Jute and Tea cultivation.
4.1.4. Planting trees of economic importance which will grow easily in West Bengal's
climatic and soil condition but which may not be growing on a mass scale at present due
to lack of technology or incentives.
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4.1.5. Development of Agro-forestry plantation (bamboo, teak, eucalyptus, pine etc.) to
replace denuded forests and to increase economic value by inter cropping.
4.1.6. Development of horticulture plants according to economic importance through clonal
propagation.
4.1.7. Enhancement of floriculture using tissue culture, micro-propagation and macropropagation.
4.1.8. Extension of regional hardening facilities to the benefit of tissue culture plants raised
at the grass roots level.
4.1.9. Promoting agriculture in the Himalayan and sub-Himalayan regions including cereals
like barley, sorghum, millet etc.
4.1.10. Cultivation of Medicinal and aromatic Plants in high altitudes and plains.
4.1.11. Establishment of gene-banks, germplasm for maintenance and propagation of
superior quality crops and plants of special value.
4.2.
Biofertilisers and Biopesticides:
4.2.1. Development of biofertilisers including blue green algae to enhance soil fertility and
to decrease dependence on chemical fertilizers.
4.2.2. Identification of indigenous micro-flora for development of bacterial consortium
useful as bio-fertilisers, bio-pesticides.
4.2.3. Development of bio-pesticides and bio-control agents against specific indigenous
targets in rural areas in the plains and mountainous agricultural lands.
4.3.
Animal Biotechnology:
4.3.1. To develop/apply methods for enhancing milk yields in cattle.
4.3.2. To develop better strains of livestock species using known or new methods of
biotechnology (transgenic cattle).
4.3.3. Use biotechnology for developing diagnostics and vaccines for major live stock disease
such as Foot and mouth disease, rabies, hemorrhage, septicimiea, anthrax etc.
4.3.3.1.Establishment of cell lines and sperm banking facilities for maintenance and
propagation of superior quality livestock.
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4.4.
Fisheries:
4.4.1. Development of better methods for pisciculture to cultivate commercially viable fish
such as katla, rohu, magur etc.
4.4.2. Development of scientific methods of cultivation of fresh water and sea water Prawn
culture farms for higher yields and better quality, especially useful for exports.
4.4.3. Diagnostics for bacterial and viral diseases affecting local edible fishes and prawns.
4.5.
Bioprospecting and bio-resource mapping:
4.5.1. Development of a database documenting economically and ecologically important spots
such as the Sunderban region (mangrove), Himalayan and sub-himalayan regions,
plains of Purulia, Birbhum, Bankura and Midnapore.
4.5.2. Identification of novel biologically important natural compounds from these unique bioreserves to be used for development of drugs, vaccines, therapeutics, biofertilisers and
biocontrol agents.
4.5.3. Preparation of inventory of microbial bio-diversity in wetland areas, coastal areas,
forests, hilly and terai areas.
4.5.4. Inventorisation of ethno-botanical flora and fauna of different areas of West Bengal.
4.5.5. Developing agro-forestry database and prediction of natural disasters using remote
sensing methods.
4.5.6. Development of genetic markers for plant and animal breeding programmes.
4.6.
Environment protection and ecosphere management:
4.6.1. Bio-remediation and waste recycling in specific location by new microbial consortia.
4.6.2. Development of bio-indicators and bio-sensors for pollution control.
4.6.3. Biotechnological interventions for pollution and waste management for specific ecosystems.
4.6.4. Development of efficient waste disposal strategies using biotechnological methods.
4.7.
Alternative energy resources:
4.7.1. Identification and development of crops for bio-engineering, bio-fuels and bio-energy.
4.7.2. Use of extremophiles as a source for bio-energy.
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4.8.
Biomass Development:
4.8.1. Use of lingo-cellulasic material for development of economically viable animal feed.
4.8.2. Conversion of waste materials for the development of biomass.
4.8.3. Cultivation of Spirulina as a high value low cost nutrient for rural and tribal areas.
4.8.4. Fish feed formulation and development using cheap and locally available materials with
the help of biotechnological intervention.
4.9.
Medical Biotechnology:
4.9.1. Development of diagnostic kits for major infectious and tropical diseases.
4.9.2. Development of diagnostic kits for genetically inherited disorders.
4.9.3. Upscaling and commercialization of already developed and available ELISA and PCR
based diagnostics.
4.9.4. Upscaling and commercialization of genomics based technologies like microarray,
chips and drug development.
4.9.5. Characterisation of anti-microbial and anti-viral agents from natural products.
4.9.6. Microbial production of recombinant therapeutic agents at low cost.
4.9.7. Methods to develop and use stem cell lines for research and tissue regeneration for
medical use.
4.9.8. Undertaking reproductive health and contraceptive research.
4.9.9. Developing strategies for prevention and cure of diseases induced by faulty diet and
lifestyle like diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
4.10
Industry:
4.10.1. Development of joint R&D programmes between basic research scientists and private
industries for commercially viable projects.
4.10.2. Setting up production units for commonly used biotechnological and bio-medical
instruments.
4.10.3. Production and commercialization of recombinant biologicals and related materials like
disposable plastic wares.
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4.10.4. Modernisation of industries using fermentation technology for production of alcohol
and other important solvents and industrial enzymes.
4.10.5. Production of value added by-products from microbial sources such an Spirulina, Fungi
etc. for use in pharmaceuticals and food industry.
4.10.6. Use of innovative recombinant DNA technology to upgrade and modernize industrial
products currently in the market.
4.10.7. Development of knowledge base using biotechnological research and promotion of
contract research.
4.10.8. To set up Biotech product development fund and technology platforms.
4.10.9. To replace synthetic products by developing new technology based on biological
materials.
4.10.10.Development of small scale industrial sector for bio-pesticide, bio-fertilisers, food
processing and packaging industries.
4.11. Biotechnology and Societal Development
Biotechnology has both multidimensional and multifunctional role for achieving social
development in the face of the challenging problems of growing population, diminishing
resources and ecological hazards of development and growth. All over the world, particularly
in the developed countries, biotechnology has played a very significant role in the
manufacturing of health products, secondary metabolites, biopharmaceuticals, enzymes,
microbial production of chemicals and other farm-biotechnological industries. In order to cater
to the real life needs of the state, the Government of West Bengal is keen to facilitate training
of rural women in preservation and packing of final products, leafy vegetable cultivation,
mushroom cultivation, vermicomposting. Government will further assist training and
motivating the people of rural Bengal in the conservation and cultivation of medicinal and
aromatic plants. The government of West Bengal intends to take all measures to propagate
green house cultivation, low cost tissue culture and organic farming throughout the state. The
government under its own initiative would conduct trial organic farming in a few agricultural
farms. To reach its goal the government of West Bengal intends to take up the following tasks.
4.11.1. Essential emphasise will be laid in rural sector. The concept of bio-village would be
spread throughout the state.
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4.11.2. Location and natural resource specific projects shall be developed.
4.11.3. Involvement of women and SC/ST would be emphasized in rural development
programmes.
4.11.4. Genetic counseling centers will be setup with diagnostic centers for genetic disorders
for helping the needy.
5.
Biosafety and Ethical regulation
5.1.
Biosafety Protocol Management :
The use of recombinant DNA technology in agriculture is aimed at improving yields of
the agricultural produces with a considerable saving in labour and land use. However, the use
of this new technology for commercial gains and the question of biosafety are intimately
related. Therefore, the state will adequately emphasise on the need for evolving a universal
biosafety protocol as soon as possible. Identification of the parameters needed to be considered
for the assessment of Biosafety and the measures required to be taken thereof for managing the
risks involved in the commercialisation of transgenic plants will be adequately stressed.
Application of transgenic plants in commercial agriculture is considered to be a genuine
concern for safety among all cross-sections of human beings particularly because such
agricultural products will be the parts of human and animal food chain. So strategies to be
evolved for risk management would duly consider the important factors like controlling and
destroying the volunteer transgenic plants used for experimentation, taking account of the
human activities in case the transgenic plants have allergenic properties, appropriate training of
the people handling transgenic plants and evolution of suitable plans for handling the
unexpected events. The hazards and risks shall be assessed on the basis of up-to-date
knowledge on transgenic plants. The experience of other countries will also be taken into
consideration for gaining deeper understanding and in confidence building for the use of
transgenic plants. While deciding upon the commercial application cautious steps shall be taken
to bring in adequate transparency in introducing transgenic plants in open environment. Due
emphasise will be laid in the addressal of the problems of varying behaviour of the same plant
in different agro-climatic environments. Effective steps will be taken to form Bioethical and
Biosafety Committees from among the experts available within the state. These high power
Committees shall advise on the introduction of specific transgenic plants for commercial
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agriculture and will function within the domain of DNA guidelines, 1990 under Environmental
Protection Act.
5.2.
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
Keeping in view that biotechnology has a pervasive role in agriculture and industry,
food and medicine, environment and ecology, plant and animal cloning and also the fact that
biotechnology is a knowledge based industry and intellectual, rather than financial capital,
approach to the question of intellectual property protection will be positive, rather than
defensive. In view of the complexities involved in patenting biotechnological innovations, an
appropriate IPR system will be evolved over a period of time. The Department of Science &
Technology is already operating a Patent Information Centre through W.B.State Council of
Science & Technology. In course of time, this facility will be converted to a State Level IPR
Centre with special emphasis to IPR issues related to innovations in biotechnology which in the
long run will deal with everything arising out of IPR in biotechnology in the state.
6.
Fiscal Incentives and Concessions
Industrial units in Bio-technology sector shall be eligible to get incentives under West
Bengal Incentive Scheme 2000. The salient feature of the Scheme are given below:
6.1.
Applicability of the 2000-Scheme:
The 2000 Scheme shall generally be applicable to all large, medium, cottage and small
scale projects to be set up and also to expansion projects of existing units on or after the
1st January 2000. The units may be in the private sector, co-operative sector joint sector
as also companies/undertakings owned or managed by the State Govenment.
6.2.
Eligibility criteria for incentives under the 2000-Scheme:
6.2.1. Any industrial project in the large and medium sector to which this scheme applies,
shall be eligible for securing an eligibility certificate provided:
(a)
the project is covered by a detailed feasibility report/project report prepared for the
purposes.
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(b)
the project has been approved and sanctioned by an All India Financial Institution or a
Commercial Bank or a State Financial Institution, as the case may be. In the case of a
project with arrangements of finance from own resources, issue of eligibility certificate
shall be considered provided the WBIDC is satisfied about the arrangement of such
finance.
6.2.2. Any industrial unit in the small scale sector shall be eligible for incentives under this
scheme subject to the fulfilment of the conditions specified below:
i)
The unit in the small scale sector shall be registered with the District Industries Centre
concerned finally or permanently. Such permanent or final registration must be valid
and remain in force.
However, in respect of subsidy on investment in plant and machinery the undertaking
concerned may be provisionally or temporarily registered on or after the 1st April 1999
and valid registration to that effect may be accepted in place of permanent or final
registration and the amount of subsidy shall be judged on the quantum of investment in
plant and machinery as sanctioned and disbursed by the financial agency concerned.
ii)
Industrial co-operatives, undertakings assisted by K.V.I.C. or W.B.K.V.I. Board as well
as the undertaking set up under IRDP/SESRU/IUEP/SEEUY and other similar selfemployment schemes receiving benefits in respect of any of the items specified under
this Scheme shall also be eligible to get the benefit of other items only under this
Scheme.
6.2.3. For the benefit of subsidy for conversion to piped gas and for gas charges, an existing
unit shall require registration with Greater Calcutta Gas Supply Corporation Ltd. and
also a certificate of expenditure approved by the Greater Calcutta Gas Supply
Corporation.
For the benefit of subsidy for installation of plant facilities for use of piped gas and for
gas charges, a new unit/an existing unit for its expansion project shall require
registration certificate of Directorate of Indistries or registration certificate from DIC, as
the case may be, eligibility certificate of WBIDC and a certificate of expenditure
approved by the Greater Calcutta Gas Supply Corporation Limited.
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6.3.
Classification of developed areas and backward areas:
6.3.1 For the purpose of determination of types and quantum of incentive available under this
Scheme for the approved projects, according to their location, the State shall be
classified in the following groups:
Group A – Calcutta Municipal Corporation
Group B – Howrah, Hooghly, North 24-Paraganas, South 24-Paraganas excluding the
area under the jurisdiction of the Calcutta Municipal Corporation, Burdwan, Nadia and
Midnapore districts.
Group C – Murshidabad, Birbhum, Purulia, Bankura, Malda, Coochbehar, North
Dinajpur, South Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling districts.
6.3.2. No incentive will be granted to any unit set up in the area under Group-A except to the
extent provided in the Scheme.
6.4.
State Capital Investment Subsidy:
6.4.1. An eligible Industrial unit located in Group-B area and set up in the State on or after the
1st January 2000, will be entitled to State Capital Investment Subsidy @ 15% of the
Fixed Capital Investment subject to a limit of Rs. 150.00 lakhs.
6.4.2. An eligible industrial unit located in a Group-C area and set up in the State on or after
the 1st January 2000, will be entitled to State Capital Investment Subsidy @ 25% of the
Fixed Capital Investment subject to a limit of Rs.250.00 lakhs.
6.5.
Interest Subsidy :
6.5.1 An eligible industrial unit for its approved project will be entitled to Interest Subsidy to
the extent of 50% of the annual interest liability on the loan borrowed from a
Commcercial Bank/Financial Institution/NBFC approved by Reserve Bank of India, for
implementation of the approved project, subject to a limit of Rs.100.00 lakhs per year
depending on the location of the unit a follows:
i)
Group-B area : 5 years
ii)
Group-C area : 7 years
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6.5.2 The Interest Subsidy will be payable annually subject to submission of a
statement/certificate by the lending Banks/Financial Institutions/NBFC so as that the
unit has paid the due interest to the institutions on the due dates.
6.6
Waiver of Electricity Duty :
An eligible unit for its approved project will be entitled to waiver of electricity duty on
the electricity consumed for its production/operation activity for a period of 5 years
from the date of commercial production/operation.
6.7.
Employment Generation Subsidy :
6.7.1 An eligible industrial unit in the large and medium sector will be entitled to
reimbursement to the extent of 50% of the expenditure incurred by it for paying its
contribution towards Employees State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund
(EPF) depending on the location of the unit as follows :
i)
Group-B area : 5 years
iii)
Group-C area : 7 years
6.7.2. An eligible unit in the Small Scale Sector will be entitled to reimbursement to the extent
of 75% of the expenditure incurred by it for paying its contribution towards Employees
State Insurance (ESI) and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Scheme depending on the
location of the unit as follows :
i)
Group-B area : 5 years
ii)
Group-C area : 7 years
6.7.3. The reimbursement of the expenditure prescribed at sub-para 7.1 and 7.2 above will be
payable annually based on minimum statutory limit subject to the condition that the unit
has paid its contribution towards ESI & EPF on due dates.
6.8. Remission of Stamp Duty & Registration Fee :
6.8.1 An eligible industrial unit irrespective of its location will be entitled to exemption from
payment of 50% of stamp duty and registration fee required for the purpose of
registration of documents within the State relating to purchase/acquisition of land and
buildings for setting up of the approved project.
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6.8.2 Notwithstanding anything contained anywhere in the Scheme in the incentive
prescribed at para 6.8.1 above shall be admissible from the date of issue of the
notification of this Scheme.
6.9. Subsidy for conversion for use of piped gas :
6.9.1 An existing unit irrespective of its location undertaking conversion for use of piped gas
for manufacture/operation on or after the 1st January 2000 will be eligible to subsidy
equal to 75% of the investment for necessary conversion of furnace etc., subject to a
limit of Rs.10.00 lakhs.
6.9.2 A new unit for its approved project set up on or after the 1st January 2000 envisaging
use of piped gas for manufacture/operation will be entitled to the benefit prescribed at
sub-para 6.9.1 above for installation of necessary equipments in the units for use of
piped gas.
6.9.3 An existing unit or a new unit mentioned at sub-para 6.9.1 and 6.9.2 above will be
entitled to subsidy of 20% of gas charges on gas used for manufacture/operation for a
period of 5 years from the date of commencement of supply of gas for commercial
manufacture/operation of the unit.
6.10. Subsidy for Quality Improvement in the Small Scale Sector :
An eligible industrial unit in the small scale sector shall be reimbursed 50% of the
expenditure upto a maximum of Rs.5.00 lakhs for installing pollution control devices
and obtaining ISI Certification/ISO 9000 from approved institutions/Research
Laboratories.
6.11. Additional incentive for industrial units in Bio-technology Sector :
6.11.1 With effect from 01.07.2001 new units in the area of Bio-technology located in
Group-A area shall be eligible to the same incentives as are normally admissible to a
new unit located in Group-B area.
6.11.2 With effect from 01.07.2001 new units in the area of Bio-technology located in GroupB and Group-C areas will be entitled to additional interest subsidy of 10% of interest
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liability subject to a further ceiling of Rs.20.00 lakhs. The total interest subsidy will be
available for an additional period of 2 years in all such cases.
6.11.3 With effect from 01.07.2001 new units in the area of Bio-technology irrespective of
their location will be entitled to full exemption from payment of stamp duty and
registration fee required for registration documents relating to purchase/acquisition of
land & buildings for setting up of the approved project.
Explanation: The Directorate of Industries should examine the activities together with
the scrutiny where IEM Acknowledgement of the Article bears NIC code number
relating to bio-technology. Clarification with regard to Bio-technology will be taken
from the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of West Bengal, if it is so
required.
6.12. Incentives for approved expansion project of an existing unit :
An existing unit for its approved expansion project will be entitled to all the incentives
mentioned above in this Scheme subject to fulfilment of the conditions prescribed for
the respective item for a new unit.
6.13. Mega Projects (Projects with investment of Rs.25 crores or above) :
Notwithstanding anything contained anywhere in the Scheme the State Govt. may
consider granting special package of incentives under this Scheme to a Mega Project
having due regard to the characteristics of the project, case by case basis, in the
following areas :
i)
size of investment
ii)
special nature of industry
iii)
employment potentiality
iv)
down-stream effect of the industry
v)
ancillarisation effect of the industry
vi)
export potentiality
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7.
Formation of Working Group
The Government shall set up a Working Group on Biotechnology with Minister-in-
charge of Commerce & Industries Department as the Chairman and representatives of
departments concerned as members to coordinate activities related to Biotechnology in the
State.
8.
Constitution of State Advisory Board on Biotechnology
The government shall set up an Advisory Board on Biotechnology in the State. To deal
with the following issues :8.1.1. To provide advisory services to all R & D institutions and commercial activities in
biotechnology in private and public sectors.
8.1.2. To address all such issues as may come in the way of giving effect to the
Biotechnology Policy of the State of West Bengal
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