ISLAMABAD, May 21: The Ministry of Science and Technology has approved a Rs38 million project for promotion of biotechnology research and preparation of an action plan.

According to a press release issued here on Tuesday, the project will be implemented by Pakistan Council for Science and Technology in two years.

It aims at improving the existing research facilities in agriculture, livestock and medical sectors, besides universities, and research and development organizations.

An important aspect of the project will be to encourage involvement of private sector in biotechnology related activities to promote commercialization of research, particularly in agriculture and health sectors.

Under the project, scientists will be supported for purchase of research books and subscription to quality journals. Part of the funds will also be used to finance participation of scientists in national and international seminars and workshops. This will also encourage collaborative research projects. The project proposals will be prioritized and selected on the basis of their relevance to solving agriculture, health, and environment related problems. For example, the use of fermentation for development of bio-pesticides and bio- fertilizers; tissue culture for mass production of disease free plants; genetic engineering for development of crops with novel traits; pre-natal diagnosis of inherited disorders; early diagnosis of cancer and commercial production of therapeutical proteins for development of vaccines for common diseases; biorediation for cleaning up contaminated soils; development of bacteria for waste disposal and development of biofuels.

The decision about research grants will be made on the basis of performance evaluation and relevance of projects proposed to the commercialization potential and social/economic benefits.

Biotechnology was declared among the top priority areas in the third meeting of National Commission for Science and Technology.