IIT Mandi Establishes BioNEST Centre to Drive Biotechnology and Healthcare Innovation in the Himalayan Region

  Indian Institute of Technology Mandi announces the establishment of the BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre, a Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)-sponsored initiative aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial ventures in the biotechnology and healthcare sectors. With an initial funding of Rs. 5 Cr, this initiative aims to address social, economic, and ecological challenges unique to India, leveraging the strategic advantages of IIT Mandi’s geographical location and robust ecosystem.

The primary objective of the BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre is to create a focused incubation initiative that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in biotechnology and healthcare. Situated in the Himalayan region, the center aims to position itself as a hub of excellence, attracting national and international attention and partnerships. Leveraging IIT Mandi’s access to diverse biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge, the initiative will address regional and global health challenges.

The BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre will primarily focus on healthcare and biotechnology, particularly addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Himalayan region. Key focus areas include:

• Healthcare Innovation: Developing solutions for disease detection, affordable healthcare, medical devices, prosthetics, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
• Biotechnology: Exploring new avenues in medical science, drug discovery, biotechnology applications, bioactive compounds, supplements, and functional foods for health and wellness.

The BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure for advanced research and development, leveraging expertise from engineering, biological sciences, and healthcare to foster multidisciplinary innovation. Strategically located in Himachal Pradesh, it will benefit from rich biodiversity and traditional medicinal knowledge. With proven operational capacity in challenging terrain, the center will collaborate closely with regional healthcare stakeholders, government agencies, industry partners, and local communities to create a dynamic ecosystem for impactful research.

Additionally, the centre will play a pivotal role in enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Himalayan region. It will provide vital incubation support to startups, offering funding, mentorship, and access to advanced facilities. By fostering innovation, BioNEST aims to develop cutting-edge solutions that tackle both regional and global health challenges.

Speaking about the entrepreneurial opportunities created by BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre, Dr. Satvasheel Ramesh Powar, Faculty-in-charge, IIT Mandi Catalyst, said, “The BioNEST-IIT Mandi Catalyst Centre will support business ventures in the biotechnology and healthcare sectors that can generate significant economic opportunities by creating jobs. The centre will enhance collaboration and knowledge exchange by establishing strong networks among entrepreneurs, investors, industry partners, and academic institutions. In addition, the center is committed to promoting sustainable development by encouraging startups to pioneer environmentally friendly technologies and solutions.”

The establishment of BIRAC-sponsored BioNEST at IIT Mandi will provide state-of-the-art infrastructure and expert mentorship to budding entrepreneurs in the biotechnology sector. This initiative aims to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem that supports the development of cutting-edge technologies and solutions addressing global healthcare and environmental challenges.