To stimulate, foster and enhance the innovation capabilities of Small and Medium enterprises during the 11th Plan, a Biotechnology Industry Research & Development Assistance Council (BIRAC) would be put in place. As an interim measure a “Pilot-Biotechnology Industry Research & Development Assistance Programme” has been approved by the Government which would facilitate and promote industrial research through technology transfer and IP management, technology acquisition and technology forecasting. In addition there would be a special cell to address the needs of training and capacity building.

Source: Biotech News, Vol III, No.5, October 2008; Web: www.biotechnews.in