The visiting biotech industry delegation to United States led by Union Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal has announced the setting up of three subgroups within the existing India-US High Technology Group (HTCG) to focus on issues like transfer of biomaterials, clinical research and new product development (innovation).

The HTCG was set up as a part of the Next Steps in Strategic Partnership (NSSP), which identified biotechnology as one the four key areas of collaboration with public private partnership. Following the last HTCG meeting in New Delhi in December 2005, an Industry working group for biotechnology was set up, coordinated by FICCI (The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) from India and USIBC from the US.

The three subgroups announced within the working group now have been tasked to prepare a comprehensive report in time bound program to effectively work on material transfer agreements and protocols that are required to be in place for facilitation of bio material movement. The delegation felt the need for developing formalized infrastructure and processes and set up for the movement of the biomaterials.

"An ATCC subsidiary in India could catalyse the process. Collaboration between the regulatory mechanisms like the FDA will be necessary. Facilitation of material handling at Indian airports and ports requires appropriate infrastructure development. Appropriate development of Customs procedures and their implementation framework will need to be developed. Adequately trained manpower for bio material handling will be necessary for effective movement," the delegation noted.

The HTCG has felt the need for synergizing core-competencies in R&D and cost effectiveness. The sub group has been asked to identify limitations affecting realization of the full potential in this area and to identify joint areas for research and product development. The Group will conduct an in-depth study and suggestions for taking this forward. The subgroups will meet regularly and identify issues and suggest suitable mechanisms to facilitate closer public private partnership for growth of the biotech sector. The HTCG is co-chaired by Dr Krishna Ella (Chairman Bharat Biotech) and Nigel Thompson, Executive Director Merck & Co.

Speaking at the meeting, the Minister advised the Group to prioritise key issues affecting closer cooperation and offered the India's support in resolving them.