Karnataka Approves Marine Biotechnology Policy

Karnataka approved a five-year Marine Biotechnology Policy for 2026-2031 on 18 September 2026. The policy aims to expand the state’s Blue Bioeconomy, increase marine biotechnology-based enterprise, and create institutional and industrial infrastructure along the Karnataka coast.

Marine Biotechnology and Blue Bioeconomy

Marine biotechnology uses marine organisms, marine genetic resources, and ocean-based biological processes for products and services. The Blue Bioeconomy refers to economic activity based on sustainable use of ocean and coastal resources, including fisheries, seaweed, marine biomaterials, and biomanufacturing.

The Karnataka policy targets growth of the Blue Bioeconomy from about USD 2 billion to USD 6-8 billion by 2031. The proposed outlay for the policy is Rs 120 crore over five years.

Policy Components and Institutional Framework

The policy provides for the Karnataka Institute of Marine Biotechnology and Blue Economy at the Government Fisheries College. It also includes laboratories, a biobank, and incubation centres in Udupi.

Dedicated Marine Biotechnology Zones are proposed in collaboration with the fisheries department. These zones are planned with common infrastructure and testing facilities for research and commercial activity.

The policy includes a Seaweed Value Addition Production Linked Incentive, or SVA-PLI, for higher-value seaweed derivatives. It also covers marine research, technology development, commercialisation, seaweed processing, marine biomaterials, biomanufacturing, and sustainable marine enterprises.

Existing Institutions and Employment Targets

The policy builds on marine science and biotechnology capabilities at the College of Fisheries in Mangaluru, Karnataka University in Dharwad, and marine biotechnology programmes at NITTE. These institutions form part of the state’s existing academic and research base in marine sciences.

The policy is projected to create about 2,500 high-value technical jobs and 7,500 coastal enterprise and livelihood opportunities. Priyank Kharge holds the portfolio of Home, Information Technology, Biotechnology and E-Governance in Karnataka, and Dr G Parameshwara serves as Deputy Chief Minister.

Important Facts for Exams

• Marine biotechnology is a branch of biotechnology that uses marine organisms for industrial, pharmaceutical, and environmental applications.
• The Blue Economy is a policy and economic concept linked to sustainable use of ocean resources.
• Seaweed is used in food, fertilisers, pharmaceuticals, and biomaterials.
• Production Linked Incentive schemes are used in India to support manufacturing and value addition in selected sectors.

Exam-Relevant Static Facts

Karnataka has a long coastline on the Arabian Sea, which supports fisheries, ports, and coastal livelihoods. Udupi, Mangaluru, and Dharwad are among the locations linked to the state’s marine science and biotechnology ecosystem.