India, Cuba eye collaboration in Vaccine Development
By TIOL News Service
NEW DELHI, MAR 18, 2025: INDIA and Cuba reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in science and technology, particularly in biotechnology and biomanufacturing, as Cuba Deputy Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Eduardo Martínez Díaz called on the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr. Jitendra Singh here yesterday.
The meeting, held on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, explored avenues to deepen collaboration in medical research, vaccine development, and sustainable biomanufacturing.
During the discussions, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that collaborative research is indispensable for a science-driven society to have a global influence at scale. He noted that joining hands with the best in the world and pursuing complementary, targeted research will propel India's scientific community to the next level of innovation, transformation, and skill development.
The Indian Minister also stressed that the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is increasingly focusing on collaborative research to tackle socio-economic and environmental challenges with long-term benefits.
Highlighting India's progress in biotechnology, Dr. Jitendra Singh spoke about DBT's initiatives, including its role as the nodal agency for the G20 Initiative on Bioeconomy (GIB). He noted that DBT played a key role in defining the bioeconomy framework within the GIB, contributing policy measures such as Lifestyles for Sustainable Development (LiFE), the BioE3 Policy, and the National Biofuels Policy.
These initiatives align with India's vision of Green Growth and a Net-Zero carbon economy, underscoring India's commitment to sustainable development, said Dr Jitendra Singh.
The Indian side also highlighted the country's achievements in biomanufacturing, with the BioE3 Policy aiming to revolutionize the production of bio-based high-value products. The bioeconomy, which currently contributes 4.25% to India's GDP, has grown from USD10 billion in 2014 to USD151 billion in 2023, achieving this milestone two years ahead of the 2025 target.
Dr. Eduardo Martínez Díaz provided insights into Cuba's success in biotechnology, particularly its achievements in developing low-cost vaccines and pioneering cancer treatments. He highlighted Cuba's focus on biomanufacturing and expressed interest in partnering with India to advance research and production capabilities.
Both sides discussed strengthening existing agreements in health, medicine, and biotechnology, building upon previous MoUs on traditional medicine, homeopathy, and scientific collaboration. Given Cuba's growing interest in Ayurveda and Indian naturopathy, both nations expressed optimism about expanding engagement in this sector.
The Department of Biotechnology also emphasized its role in accelerating vaccine development and manufacturing through initiatives such as "Mission COVID Suraksha," launched under Atma Nirbhar Bharat 3.0. Additionally, DBT's Public Sector Enterprise, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), continues to promote and nurture India's biotech startup ecosystem, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.
Cuba extended an invitation to Dr. Jitendra Singh to visit Havana and lead an Indian delegation to Bio-Habana 2026, a global biotechnology conference.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both countries. From the Cuban side, the delegation included Ambassador H.E. Mr. Juan Carlos Marsán Aguilera, First Deputy Minister of Health H.E. Mrs. Tania Margarita Cruz Hernández, and key officials from Cuba's biotechnology and research sectors. From the Indian side, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, and other senior officials participated in the discussions.
