30 September 2004	Thursday	14 Shaban 1425

ISLAMABAD, Sept 29: Promotion and commercialization of biotechnology can contribute towards economic development of the country. This was said by Higher Education Commission (HEC) Chairman Dr Attaur Rehman here on Wednesday. He was inaugurating the first National Conference on 'Industrial and Environmental Biotechnology'.

Dr Ata said almost Rs96 million had been spent on carrying out research and development in various areas of biotechnology related to the industrial sector. In view of the specific significance of biotechnology towards industrial development, the government is taking all essential initiatives, including launching of a dedicated TV channel for education and awareness of this scientific achievement, he said.

"We may be lagging behind in information technology field but in biotechnology, Pakistan is in step with the contemporary world to benefit from the potential of biotechnology to the maximum," he added.

In this regard, the HEC chairman said universities, research institutions and students could have free access to scientific instrumentation and the commission would take care of the expenses.

He also encouraged Venture Capital (VC) schemes in the country to persuade investors to invest in such areas. "The government has to be the initial driver to attract such investments by allowing tax breaks besides other investor- friendly benefits."

Apprising participants of the inadequate requisite manpower engaged in the field of biotechnology, Dr Ata said: "The county lacks high-tech human resource. At least 300 to 400 PhDs are needed in research institutes and universities but there are only three to four in case of Pakistan. The government is spending Rs3 to Rs4 million on development of human resource and infrastructure."

He said bio safety guidelines had been prepared and issued from the forum of Comstech for deliberations and benefits of the member countries. National Commission on Biotechnology Chairman Dr Anwar Nasim said 28 research institutions of the country were being provided funds and facilities for conducting research.

He said commercialization of research and its conversion into usable products was the aim.

Speaking to participants, National Commission on Biotechnology secretary and Member (Bio sciences), Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Dr Kausar Abdullah Malik, said the commission had instituted 'Scientist of the Year Award in Biotechnology' that would be awarded to the individual producing the most conspicuous impact factor.