Source: TH
Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have joined forces to develop bio-experiments for the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India’s planned indigenous space station.
ISRO-DBT agreement highlights:
- Purpose: To design biological experiments for BAS and the Gaganyaan mission.
- Areas of Research:
- Impact of weightlessness on muscle health.
- Algae studies for nutrient-rich, long-lasting food sources and biofuel production.
- Effects of space radiation on astronaut health.
- BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) initiative: Aligns with DBT’s policy to promote bio-manufacturing in India, focusing on health, bio-pharma, regenerative medicine, and biotechnology for waste management.
About BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy:
· Objective: Led by the Department of Biotechnology, the BioE3 policy promotes high-performance biomanufacturing in India to support advancements in biotechnology across various sectors.
· Focus areas:
o High-value bio-based products: Encourages the production of bio-based chemicals, biopolymers, enzymes, and smart proteins.
o Climate-resilient agriculture & carbon capture: Aims to strengthen agricultural practices that can withstand climate change impacts and utilize carbon capture for sustainable growth.
o Healthcare and nutrition: Focuses on precision biotherapeutics, functional foods, and regenerative medicine to improve healthcare outcomes.
o Marine and space biotechnology: Encourages innovations in marine and space research to broaden biotechnology applications.
· Innovation and entrepreneurship: Supports R&D-driven entrepreneurship through the establishment of bio-manufacturing hubs, bio-AI centers, and biofoundries.
· Employment growth: By expanding bioeconomy sectors, the policy aims to create a skilled workforce, generating new jobs and promoting green growth.
About Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS):
- Orbit: Planned at 400 km above Earth.
- Timeline: Initial module launches by 2028; complete expansion by 2035.
- Capacity: Designed for 15–20-day missions in orbit.
- Structure: Comprises a command module, habitat module, propulsion systems, and docking ports.
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