In order to suggest new initiatives for promotion of biotechnology in the small scale sector, the government has constituted a four member inter-ministerial task force that will suggest new initiatives for the development and promotion of biotech industry in the small scale sector. Further the task force will also identify biotech products and processes that are techno-economically feasible in the small scale sector and facilitate preparation of the project profiles for such products and processes.

The task force has been set up in line with the Ministry of Small Scale Industries'' projection of biotechnology as a major thrust area for growth in the small scale sector during the Tenth Five Year Plan period. Kochi based Institute for Small Enterprise Development (ISED) had suggested the setting up of the task force to the Ministry to enable looking into the opportunities of nurturing first generation entrepreneurship. It also suggested exploring the possibilities of sub-contacting and vendor development through collaboration with organisations like the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO).

Five sectoral studies conducted in areas which have a strong SSI presence will be the base to formulate a proactive strategy to fine tune the existing policies and programmes. The studies had been undertaken with the financial assistance of $20,000 extended by UNIDO.

It has been pointed out that microbial biotechnology sub-sector should get special attention and treatment.