Marine Biotechnology

Biotechnology literally is a technology based on biology; it is the application of scientific and engineering principles to the processing or production of materials by biological agents to provide goods and services. Research on genetic engineering has led to the development of substantial variety of food and agricultural products as well as pharmaceutical and human health related products derived from several organisms. Rapid advances in biology made since the structure of DNA was clarified, provide techniques that have enhanced food production and improved human health. Advances are expected to continue and are likely to have an even greater impact in the future.

Ocean represents a source of unique genetic information, as it supports a wide range of flora and fauna of nearly 500000 species, which offer a challenge and an opportunity for discovery of number of bioactive compounds, enzymes, proteins, agrochemicals, bio-remediators, polymers, bio-fuel, etc., by using marine bio-technological approach. No other country in the world today has the unique set of advantages that our country offers for large scale practice of coastlines of over 7500 km, 13 agro-climatic zones, 5 coastal regimes, and one of the largest and most varied marine biodiversity in the globe. This gives us an opportunity to investigate the vast biota and utilize them for the benefit of mankind and ultimately for the economic uplift of our country.