Overview The BioE3 policy is being operationalised in the NER through a series of bio‑foundry and carbon‑capture projects. The Ministry of Science & Technology, in partnership with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and its public‑sector undertaking BIRAC , has earmarked 10% of the budget for these initiatives. Key Developments Establishment of Biofoundries and BioEnablers across the country, with a dedicated 10% share for the NER. Open calls for proposals under two categories – Discovery‑oriented Integrated Network Research and Bridging the Gap for Scale‑up – are being processed on a Mission Mode basis. State‑level BioE3 Cells have been notified in Assam and Sikkim. A collaborative network involving iBRIC institutes and the Sikkim government is testing bio‑based solutions for large‑cardamom pest management and disease‑tolerant varieties. Ten projects covering carbon capture, micro‑algae bio‑fuel, and sustainable cardamom cultivation are underway in Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Assam and Sikkim (see Annexure‑I). Important Facts Selected projects include: Exploring Carbon Capture and Utilization in Millet‑Based Agroforestry – Central Agricultural University, Arunachal Pradesh. Carbon Sequestration through Afforestation & Bio‑engineered Plant Systems – Bio‑Resources Development Centre, Meghalaya. Microalgae‑based CO₂ capture for Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Biopesticide – IIT Guwahati and MNIT Jaipur, Assam. Genetically Engineered Microalgae & Photobioreactors for Bio‑char Production – NIT Silchar, Assam. Integrated Biotechnological & Geochemical CCUS of Wasted Drill Cuttings – IIT Guwahati and Dibrugarh University, Assam. Biotechnological interventions for large Cardamom cultivation – Sikkim State Council of Science & Technology and Institute of Bioresources, Imphal. UPSC Relevance These initiatives illustrate the Government’s push for Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) and bio‑manufacturing to achieve climate‑resilient agriculture, clean energy and industrial diversification. Aspirants should link this to: India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Policy frameworks such as the BioE3 strategy, the National Biotechnology Development Strategy and the NEP‑2026 focus on regional equity. Inter‑ministerial coordination (Science & Technology, Agriculture, Environment) – a case study for governance and implementation challenges. Way Forward To maximise impact, the government may consider: Strengthening Centre‑State mechanisms to ensure timely fund disbursement and capacity building in remote NER districts. Creating a unified data‑platform for monitoring CCU and bio‑manufacturing outcomes, facilitating evidence‑based policy revisions. Encouraging private‑sector participation through fiscal incentives, thereby scaling up commercial viability of bio‑fuels and bio‑pesticides. Integrating these projects with broader NE‑India development plans such as the Act East Policy and the Himalayan Eco‑Region Initiative. Overall, the BioE3‑driven bio‑foundry ecosystem aims to transform the NER into a hub for sustainable biotechnology, climate mitigation and inclusive growth.