Curtain Raiser of ESTIC–2025 and Launch of D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge at BRIC–NABI, Mohali

Mohali, October 16, 2025: The BRIC–National Agri-Food and Biomanufacturing Institute (BRIC–NABI), organized the Curtain Raiser Ceremony of the Emerging Science, Technology and Innovation Conclave (ESTIC–2025) and launched the D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 Challenge at BRIC–NABI, Mohali.

ESTIC 2025 aims to bring together scientists, innovators, policymakers, and experts from India and abroad to work together and share ideas on new and emerging technologies. The Conclave will be held from 3–5 November 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, with 13 ministries and departments joining hands under the guidance of the Principal Scientific Adviser. It will highlight India’s achievements in 11 key areas, including biomanufacturing, led by DBT and BRIC–NABI. In line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, ESTIC encourages teamwork between different sectors through policies like the BioE³ Policy for sustainable growth.

The D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE³ Challenge is a national competition launched under the BioE³ Policy (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment), approved by the Union Cabinet in August 2024. D.E.S.I.G.N. stands for (D - Define Real Needs, E - Evidence First, S – Sustainability by Design, I – Integration, G – Go-To-Market and N – Net-Positive Impact)

It invites students from Classes VI to XII across India to create biotech-based ideas that solve real problems related to health, the environment, and sustainability. Students can submit their ideas through the MyGov Innovate India portal starting 1st November 2025, with new submission rounds every month for a year. Winners will receive certificates of merit, and selected ideas may be showcased and supported for incubation through BIRAC’s EYUVA or BioNEST programmes.

Prof. Ashwani Pareek, Executive Director, BRIC–NABI, delivered the welcome address and highlighted the achievements of the organization, followed by thematic presentations on ESTIC–2025 by Dr. Garima Gupta and on D.E.S.I.G.N. for BioE3 by Dr. Vamsi Krishna from DBT.

The event was graced by Prof. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, and Priyank Bharti, Secretary, Science, Technology and Environment, Government of Punjab. Speaking on the occasion Prof. Rajesh Gokhale encouraged youth to participate in these programs with innovative ideas to shape up our nation, while Priyank Bharti asked the youth to enthusiastically contribute to above programs.  

The launch concluded with addresses by the distinguished guests, emphasizing the role of biotechnology and youth innovation in building a sustainable and self-reliant India, followed by a vote of thanks and the National Anthem.