Karnataka Clears Five-Year Marine Biotechnology Policy to Expand Blue Economy

Karnataka has approved a five-year plan to develop businesses using marine resources.

The plan covers research, technology, seaweed processing and other biotechnology activities.

The government has proposed spending Rs.

120 crore on the programme.

It wants the blue bioeconomy to grow from about $2 billion to as much as $8 billion by 2031.

A new institute could support marine research and help turn discoveries into products.

Special marine biotechnology zones could provide companies with laboratories, testing and other shared facilities.

Seaweed businesses could receive incentives to make products such as fertilisers, plastics and health supplements.

The plan also includes a pilot programme to measure carbon captured by seaweed and coastal ecosystems.

The government projects new technical jobs and coastal livelihood opportunities, while saying marine resources must be used sustainably.