Why in the News?

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of two umbrella schemes under the Department of Biotechnology, merging them into 'Bio-RIDE.' Bio-RIDE aims to foster innovation, bio-entrepreneurship, and enhance environmental sustainability.

About Bio-RIDE

• The scheme has three broad components -
  • Biotechnology Research and Development (R&D)
  • Industrial & Entrepreneurship Development (I&ED)
  • Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry.
• It aims to accelerate research, enhance product development, and bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications.
• Development Areas: Synthetic biology, biopharmaceuticals, bioenergy and bioplastics.
• To enable a Circular Bioeconomy in India, a new component on Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry is being initiated in alignment with the 'Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE)' initiative, aiming to harness the potential of biomanufacturing.

'Lifestyle For the Environment (Life)' Initiative

• It was introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP26 in Glasgow on 1st November 2021.
• It is a call for the global community to drive LiFE as an international movement promoting "mindful and deliberate utilization" over "mindless and destructive consumption" to protect and preserve the environment.
• Objective: Encourages individuals and communities to adopt eco-friendly practices and lifestyle changes to mitigate climate change and protect the environment.
• Alignment: Integrates with various national and global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Focus Areas: Clean energy, sustainable agriculture, water conservation, and waste management practices.