Union Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh outlined an integrated roadmap on Tuesday that integrates the Central government’s proposed ‘Rare Earth Corridor’ with Odisha’s rich marine and coastal resources, biotechnology ecosystem, Space capabilities and network of scientific institutions.
According to an official statement, the meeting finalised the expansion of the Department of Biotechnology’s “Institute of Life Sciences” (ILS) in Bhubaneswar, supported by an additional 50-acre land allocation from the Odisha State Government.
The expanded institutional capacity can provide a stronger base for research in life sciences and biotechnology and for initiatives linked to the Bio-E3 framework, Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment.
Dr Jitendra Singh said the Eastern Coastal Region can play a much larger role in India’s emerging Nuclear and Marine roadmap, with Odisha well placed to contribute through coordinated efforts involving Central scientific institutions and the State Government.
The approach seeks to move from individual institutional initiatives towards a connected ecosystem spanning ocean resources, critical minerals, life sciences, space technology and technology-led economic development, the Ministry of Science & Technology said in the statement.
Dr. Singh was discussing the roadmap with Odisha’s Cabinet Minister for Science & Technology, Krushna Chandra Patra, who called on him and presented a series of proposals relating to the state’s science and technology priorities.
The discussions covered the expansion of marine biotechnology, strengthening of life sciences infrastructure, greater utilisation of Odisha’s coastal and mineral resources, space applications and manufacturing, Rare Earth exploration, scientific infrastructure and participation of coastal districts in national marine-environment initiatives.
Discussions covered Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC), being developed as a collaborative platform bringing together leading academic and research institutions in the state.
OMBRIC has already established partnerships with IIT Bhubaneswar, Berhampur University, Fakir Mohan University, NIT Rourkela, IISER Berhampur and the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), Bhubaneswar, the statement said.
The proposed convergence between marine biotechnology and Earth Sciences is also intended to strengthen the scientific understanding and sustainable utilisation of Odisha’s coastal resources.
The approach will bring together expertise in marine science, earth sciences, biotechnology and mineral-resource research, creating greater scope for joint projects and technology development.
The meeting explored integrating the state’s space capabilities with ISRO, including the possibility of developing a Space Research and Manufacturing Centre in PPP mode. Such an ecosystem can bring together government institutions, national space agencies, research organisations and industry, the ministry said.
