The department of biotechnology (DBT) is focusing on technological innovations which would support the control and prevention of diseases. These include malnutrition, maternal and child health, said Prof. K Vijay Raghavan, secretary, DBT, government of India.

There is also a focus on the improvement of sanitation which is seen to be resulting in most of the infection spread. Although these are social issues, only advances in science and technology can help to tackle these problems, said Prof. Raghavan at the inauguration of the 14th edition of the Bangalore India Bio being held here from February 10-12, 2014.

The introduction of the advanced sanitation would also a see utilisation of less water and generation of energy.

Similar technologies are there which will transform the health situation of the country. But there is big issue in coming to the fore from the activists front. For instance, related to vaccines, there was a hue and cry that MMR vaccines caused autism. The fraudulent scare was unwarranted. We apply misplaced knowledge of the activists and this is a lopsided view.

A similar situation prevails in clinical trials and a negative perception of regulations.

In the case of clinical trials rich have access to expensive drugs. Therefore clinical trials are needed in India for the poor to have access to affordable and quality drugs, he said.

This is deeply and morally wrong. We have a challenge to educate the people. Views expressed should not end up in a disaster. This is where industry has an important role to play as much as the scientists too. Industry must convey that biotech has the value to transform the country, he added.