India Emerging as Global Leader in Bio-Economy and Bio-Based Agri-Inputs, Says DCPC Secretary

BIOPSF 2026 was organised by the Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology (IPFT), Gurugram, an autonomous institution under the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals.

India possesses immense potential to emerge as a global leader in the bio-economy and bio-based agricultural input sector, supported by its strong scientific foundation, rich biodiversity and rapidly expanding start-up ecosystem, according to Shri Tejveer Singh, Secretary of the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Speaking at the valedictory session of BIOPSF 2026 in New Delhi, Singh highlighted the country's growing capabilities in biotechnology, sustainable agriculture and innovation-driven solutions that can transform agricultural productivity while reducing environmental impacts.

The two-day symposium-cum-workshop focused on advancing next-generation bio-input technologies and brought together policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, researchers, entrepreneurs and students to discuss the future of sustainable agriculture in India. The event underscored the increasing importance of bio-based agricultural solutions as India seeks to enhance food security, support farmers and achieve its long-term sustainability goals.

BIOPSF 2026 Focuses on Next-Generation Bio-Inputs

BIOPSF 2026 was organised by the Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology (IPFT), Gurugram, an autonomous institution under the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals.

The event was hosted at the National Agricultural Science Complex (NASC) in New Delhi and centred on the theme:

"Next Gen Bio-Inputs – Bio-based Pesticides, Stimulants and Fertilizers."

The symposium provided a platform for stakeholders from across the agricultural value chain to exchange ideas, share research findings and explore opportunities for innovation in bio-based crop protection and nutrition solutions.

Participants discussed recent scientific developments, emerging technologies, regulatory frameworks and market opportunities related to bio-based agricultural inputs.

The gathering also formed part of the celebrations marking the 36th Foundation Day of the Institute of Pesticide Formulation Technology.

Policy Support Driving Growth in the Bio-Economy

Addressing delegates, Singh noted that India is witnessing growing momentum in the bio-economy sector due to a combination of favourable policy measures and increased attention towards sustainable agricultural practices.

According to him, several positive developments are creating a conducive environment for growth.

These include:

• Enhanced policy support for sustainable agriculture.

• Targeted initiatives promoting the bio-economy.

• Increased investment in biotechnology and innovation.

• Growing awareness of environmentally friendly farming practices.

• Expanding opportunities for bio-based alternatives to conventional agricultural inputs.

He said these factors are collectively positioning India to become a major global player in the development and deployment of bio-based agricultural technologies.

As governments and industries worldwide seek more sustainable agricultural solutions, India's capabilities in biotechnology and agricultural innovation provide a strong foundation for future leadership.

Scientific Excellence Key to Future Success

The DCPC Secretary emphasised that scientific excellence will remain a critical driver of growth in the bio-economy sector. He expressed confidence that India's scientific community, supported by research institutions, universities and industry partners, is well positioned to develop innovative solutions capable of addressing agricultural challenges while supporting environmental sustainability.

According to Singh, future progress will depend on strong collaboration among multiple stakeholders.

He highlighted the importance of:

• Research institutions.

• Academic organisations.

• Industry partners.

• Technology developers.

• Start-up enterprises.

• Young innovators and entrepreneurs.

These partnerships, he said, will play a vital role in developing next-generation agricultural technologies capable of improving productivity, enhancing resilience and supporting sustainable farming systems.

Industry-Academia Collaboration Critical

One of the central themes of Singh's address was the importance of strengthening collaboration between industry and academia.

He noted that scientific discoveries alone are not sufficient to drive transformation unless they are translated into practical products and solutions that can benefit farmers and agricultural communities.

Industry-academia partnerships can help bridge the gap between laboratory research and field-level implementation by facilitating technology transfer, product development and commercialisation.

Such collaborations also provide opportunities for researchers and entrepreneurs to work together in developing innovative bio-based products that address real-world agricultural challenges.

According to Singh, stronger cooperation between these sectors will be essential for accelerating innovation and maintaining India's competitiveness in the global bio-economy.

Bio-Pesticides Offer Sustainable Solutions

The Secretary highlighted the growing importance of bio-pesticides as a sustainable alternative to conventional crop protection products.

Bio-pesticides are derived from natural sources such as microorganisms, plants and certain minerals and are increasingly being viewed as environmentally friendly solutions for pest management.

They can help reduce the ecological impact of agriculture while supporting integrated pest management strategies and sustainable farming practices.

However, Singh pointed out that the success of bio-pesticides depends not only on scientific discovery but also on effective product development and formulation technologies.

Robust Formulation Technologies Essential

While bio-pesticides have demonstrated significant potential, the Secretary stressed that their widespread adoption will depend on the development of robust formulation technologies.

He explained that formulation technologies play a crucial role in determining the performance and acceptance of bio-based products.

Effective formulations can improve:

• Product stability.

• Field efficacy.

• Ease of application.

• Shelf life.

• Farmer acceptance.

• Overall commercial viability.

According to Singh, enhancing these aspects is essential for ensuring that bio-pesticides can compete effectively with conventional agricultural inputs and deliver consistent results under diverse farming conditions.

He emphasised that continued research and innovation in formulation science will be critical to unlocking the full potential of bio-based agricultural products.

Vision for Vikshit Bharat 2047

The Secretary linked the development of the bio-economy sector to India's broader vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047 under the Vikshit Bharat initiative.

As India seeks to strengthen its economy while addressing environmental and sustainability challenges, bio-based technologies are expected to play an increasingly important role.

Singh noted that achieving these ambitions will require sustained investment in science, technology and innovation.

He said India must continue building indigenous capabilities that enable the country to develop and commercialise advanced technologies domestically rather than relying heavily on imported solutions.

The bio-economy sector is expected to contribute significantly to this goal by generating new industries, creating employment opportunities and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Need to Strengthen Indigenous Technological Capabilities

A major priority identified by the Secretary is the strengthening of indigenous technological capabilities across the bio-economy value chain.

He stressed the importance of building homegrown expertise in areas such as:

• Bio-based chemicals.

• Crop protection technologies.

• Sustainable agricultural inputs.

• Biotechnology innovation.

• Advanced formulation technologies.

Developing domestic capabilities in these sectors can help improve India's self-reliance while positioning the country as a global supplier of innovative agricultural solutions.

According to Singh, strengthening indigenous technology development is essential for maintaining long-term competitiveness and ensuring that India captures a larger share of the rapidly growing global bio-economy market.

Promoting Translational Research

The Secretary also called for greater emphasis on translational research.

Translational research focuses on converting scientific discoveries into practical applications that can be commercialised and deployed at scale.

While India has a strong research base, Singh noted that more effort is needed to move innovations from laboratories into the marketplace.

Encouraging translational research can accelerate the development of commercially viable technologies while ensuring that scientific advancements generate tangible benefits for farmers, industries and society.

He suggested that stronger institutional support, industry partnerships and targeted funding mechanisms can help bridge this gap.

Start-Ups Driving Innovation

India's growing start-up ecosystem was highlighted as another key strength in the country's bio-economy journey.

The Secretary praised the contributions of young innovators and entrepreneurs who are developing novel solutions in biotechnology, sustainable agriculture and crop protection.

Start-ups are increasingly introducing innovative products, technologies and business models that can help address challenges related to food security, environmental sustainability and agricultural productivity.

According to Singh, fostering a supportive environment for start-up-led innovation will be essential for maintaining momentum in the sector and ensuring that India remains at the forefront of emerging technologies.

Diverse Stakeholders Come Together

BIOPSF 2026 brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders from across the agricultural and scientific ecosystem.

Participants included:

• Policymakers.

• Scientists.

• Industry representatives.

• Regulators.

• Academicians.

• Entrepreneurs.

• Start-up founders.

• Researchers.

• Students.

The event provided an important forum for discussing opportunities, challenges and future directions for bio-based agricultural technologies.

Experts explored ways to accelerate innovation, improve regulatory frameworks and encourage greater adoption of sustainable agricultural practices.

Building a Sustainable Agricultural Future

The discussions at BIOPSF 2026 highlighted the growing recognition that sustainable agriculture will be essential for meeting future food demand while protecting natural resources.

Bio-based pesticides, fertilizers and stimulants are increasingly being viewed as important tools for achieving these objectives.

As India continues to invest in scientific research, innovation and entrepreneurship, the bio-economy sector is expected to play an increasingly significant role in the country's agricultural transformation.

With strong policy support, a robust scientific ecosystem and a thriving innovation landscape, India appears well positioned to emerge as a global leader in bio-based agricultural solutions and the broader bio-economy in the years ahead.