Biotech Sovereignty Takes Centre Stage at BioEconomy Conclave 2026
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, executive chairperson and founder of , called for India to pursue biotech sovereignty while addressing the BioEconomy Conclave 2026 on Tuesday. She described the concept as both a strategic and geopolitical necessity that would enable India to control biological data, develop sovereign AI models based on domestic datasets and strengthen manufacturing platforms to ensure health security.
Speaking at the event, Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted the growing convergence of artificial intelligence and biology, arguing that nations capable of mastering both will influence the future of healthcare and life sciences. She emphasised the need to move beyond traditional drug development toward programmable biology that supports the body’s natural defence systems.
The conclave was organised by the (ABLE) in partnership with the Government of Karnataka and brought together policymakers, scientists, pharmaceutical companies and biotech researchers. The discussions focused on innovation, investment and the evolving role of AI in biotechnology.
Industry leaders at the forum pointed to the increasing integration of AI tools in research, diagnostics and agricultural applications, signalling a shift toward data-driven healthcare and bio-manufacturing.
Key Announcements and Data
, Karnataka’s Minister for Electronics, IT and Biotechnology, said the State’s bioeconomy has crossed $39 billion and contributes more than 10 percent to the State’s gross domestic product. He noted that Karnataka continues to record strong growth, adding significant value to the economy with sustained year-on-year expansion.
The State has emerged as a major biotech hub, hosting more than 1,400 biotech startups. In 2025 alone, over 200 new ventures were launched, reflecting increasing investor interest and research activity in life sciences.
Convergence of AI and Biology
Experts at the conclave stressed that the intersection of AI and biology is reshaping medicine, agriculture and manufacturing. AI-driven predictive analysis is being used to support farmers with forecasting tools, improve post-harvest management and enhance price discovery across agricultural markets.
The broader discussion highlighted how data infrastructure, genomic research and digital health platforms could position India as a global player in next-generation therapeutics and bio-manufacturing.
Impact
The call for biotech sovereignty aligns with wider global trends in which countries are seeking greater control over critical technologies and health supply chains. Building domestic capabilities in biological data, research infrastructure and manufacturing could reduce dependence on external systems while strengthening pandemic preparedness and drug innovation.
Industry participants suggested that policy support, public-private partnerships and sustained research investment will be essential for translating scientific progress into commercial outcomes.
Conclusion
The BioEconomy Conclave 2026 underscored India’s ambition to lead in the emerging AI-biology ecosystem. With strong startup growth, expanding research capacity and policy focus on innovation, the sector is expected to play a central role in the country’s future economic and healthcare strategy.
Our Final Thoughts
The push for biotech sovereignty reflects a broader shift toward technological self-reliance in critical sectors. As artificial intelligence becomes integral to life sciences, countries that build strong data ecosystems and manufacturing capabilities are likely to shape global healthcare innovation. India’s growing biotech startup base and policy momentum indicate significant potential, but long-term success will depend on sustained investment, regulatory clarity and international collaboration.