INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK AND NETWORKING

The research institutes and universities engaged in biological sciences in Orissa include the Institute of life Sciences at Bhubaneswar; the Regional Medical Research Centre of the Indian Council of Medical Research at Bhubaneswar; Regional Plant Resource Centre, Bhubaneswar; Central Rice Research Institute of ICAR at Cuttack; Central Institute for Fresh water Aquaculture and Central Tuber Crop Research Institute of ICAR at Bhubaneswar; Regional Research Laboratory of CSIR at Bhubaneswar; Orissa State Pollution Control Board,
Bhubaneswar; Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar; Utkal University, Bhubaneswar; Berhampur University, Berhampur; Sambalpur University, Burla; S.C.B. Medical College, Cuttack; M.K.C.G. Medical College, Berhampur; V.S.S. Medical College, Burla and a few other organizations. These institutions are carrying out biological research in various areas like molecular biology and genetic engineering, molecular biotechnology of cancer, vector borne diseases (malaria, filariasis and dengue etc.), molecular epidemiology of infectious diseases, genetic disorders, stress biology, ecophysiology and productivity, plant molecular biology, plant biotechnology, tissue culture and plant genetics, plant tissue culture, biochemistry, fish biotechnology, fish health and nutrition, rice genetics and rice breeding, rice biotechnology, biofertilizer and microbial technology, photosynthesis and plant genetic engineering, human genetics, forest ecology, photobiology, environmental biology, cytotoxicology and genotoxicology, algal biotechnology, microbial biotechnology, allelopathy, marine chemistry and coastal pollution, marine biology, animal health, microbial bioleaching technology and mineral biology etc.

The available expertise and facilities in the above areas will be fully utilized. In addition, the networking shall also include National institutions such as the following:
¨ National Centre for Cell Sciences, Pune
¨ National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi
¨ National Institute of Virology, Pune
¨ Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
¨ Tuberculosis Research Centre, Chennai
¨ National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases, Calcutta
¨ Bose Institute, Calcutta
¨ Zoological Survey of India, Calcutta
¨ Botanical Survey of India, Calcutta
¨ Forest Survey of India, Dehradun
¨ Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow
¨ World Health Organisation etc.

The Department of Biotechnology, Government of India has taken over the Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar to develop it into a Centre for Excellence in Biotechnology on August 2, 2002. This Institute will be the nodal institute in the State for biotechnology. A core scientific group in the Science and Technology Department of Government of Orissa will be set up to oversee the implementation of various programmes relating to biotechnology.

BIOTECHNOLOGICAL INDUSTRIES

Considering the enormity of bio-resources in the State and its rich biodiversity, the potential for industrial development is significant in the following areas:
i) Tissue culture
ii) Herbal products
iii) Biofertilizers and biopesticides
iv) Aqua-culture (fresh water and brackish)
A Biotechnology Park will be established at a suitable location. Incubator and pilot level facilities will be built in the park. The existing research facilities in the State may be net worked. The Government of Orissa may provide upto 10 acres of land for the Biotechnology Park.

HUMAN RESESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Biotechnology is a frontier area of modern biology, which has the potential to provide substantial benefits to society in such sectors as agriculture, healthcare, forestry, process industry and environmental protection. Commercialization of biotechnology requires financial resources, infrastructure for basic and applied research and the necessary qualified manpower.

Orissa, being a poor State, must utilize the rapid advances being made in biotechnology with optimum use of financial resources and should evolve its own strategy for reaping benefits by utilizing her rich bio-diversity. Training in biotechnology forms an essential part of this strategy, and qualified scientific and technical manpower can play a critical role in developing innovative solutions relevant to local needs and problems.

For development of qualified and trained man power, the following steps are proposed:
i) M.Sc. Biotechnology Programme:
Though the School of Life Sciences at Sambalpur University has been teaching full length papers on genetic engineering and biotechnology in M.Sc. (Life Sciences) since 1989, biotechnology at the M.Sc. level is not taught at any of the Universities/ Colleges of Orissa. Master’s level courses in biotechnology need to be started in different Universities / Institutions of Orissa, as students with this qualification can play a major role in biotechnology-based industries and can be engaged in developing know-how for such industries. It has been decided to start M.Sc. Biotechnology programmes with support from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India at Utkal University and at the Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology at Bhubaneswar. The Ravenshaw College, Cuttack has also started a M.Sc. Biotechnology course (self financing scheme) from December 2001.
ii) Infrastructure for research:
Universities may be offered special one-time grants for setting up infrastructure for R&D in different areas of biotechnology.
iii) Diploma Course in Medical Biotechnology:
One such course is running at Utkal University and this may be further strengthened with additional grants from the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India.
iv) Course for Laboratory Technicians:
Research in biotechnology and biotechnology-based industries requires highly skilled manpower for laboratory experiments. One year Laboratory Technician courses for B.Sc. Graduates may be opened in selected Universities/ Institutions.

DISASTER MANAGEMENT WITH BIOTECHNOLOGICAL INTERVENTION

Biotechnological intervention has a major role in evolving disaster management strategies, especially in the rehabilitation of the victim.

The following measures will help enhance preparedness:

A massive tree plantation programme in wastelands through tissue culture

Proper selection of tree species

Establishment of a good disease surveillance system

Ensuring availability of diagnostic facilities

The following employment generating activities on a decentralized basis will be helpful in rehabilitation of victims:
Vermicomposting
Tissue culture based plantation activities
Production units for nutritionally rich food
Animal feed and animal health care
Availability of diagnostic tools
Training for the victims in various income generating activities
Establishing small industrial units

MEDICAL RESEARCH AND APPLICATION

Applications of biotechnology have been rapidly revolutionizing the practice of medicine in recent years. Important areas of application include new, simple and accurate diagnostic tools particularly for infectious diseases, genetic analysis for disease susceptibility, development of new drugs including vaccines, targeted drug delivery, molecular finger printing for investigating epidemics and many others.

Malaria, filariasis, cancer, tuberculosis and under-nutrition pose a major burden of disease in the State as also in many other parts of the country. Further, Orissa is prone to several natural disasters including cyclones, floods and draughts which promote out-break of several epidemics. Considering these facts, there is scope for application of biotechnology tools in the alleviation of human suffering.

Malaria:

With 3.8% of India's population, Orissa accounts for 15 -20 % of total malaria cases, 35-40% of Plasmodium falciparum infection and more than 50% malaria deaths of the country. There are as many as 25 anopheline species encountered in the State including four known vectors of malaria. This disease is considered as the major public health problem in the State. Perennial transmission of malaria is usual in the State, coupled with drug resistance in P. falciparum. More than 85% of the total malaria cases of the State are due to P. falciparum. Therefore, efforts will be made to determine the risk factors of perennial transmission of this disease in different physiographical regions and selective, sustainable and cost effective methods will be developed for prevention and control of malaria.

A vaccine may be an ideal weapon against malaria, because it would place the immune system in a state of readiness to kill the parasites whenever they invade the body. The genetic variation in parasites however limits the success of this approach. A multi-disciplinary approach is urgently necessary for the prevention of malaria.

Early and correct diagnosis is most important for proper management of malaria and to prevent further complications. Malaria diagnosis on the basis of clinical symptoms is at best 50% accurate. Diagnosis of malaria using conventional staining methods is unsatisfactory and interpretation of results requires considerable expertise. The fluorescent technique holds promise for the diagnosis of malaria. The PCR technique is better in view of its ability to detect infection in patients with very low parasitemia. However, false positive and false negative results may be found in a very few cases due to PCR inhabitation or contamination. An approach could be made to develop a diagnostic method using DNA hybridization technique to avoid false positive and negative results as found in PCR.

Indigenous plants having anti-malarial properties will be identified.

Filariasis :

India accounts for more than 40% of global lymphatic filariasis cases and, among the States, Orissa's share is the largest. Orissa has been an endemic home for lymphatic filariasis since time immemorial. Depiction of the clinical manifestation of the disease in the stone carvings in the Great Sun Temple at Konark shows that this disease has been known in Orissa for long. Lymphatic filariasis in India is caused by two nematode parasites viz., Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia malayi. The latter was not known in India till it was reported in Orissa in 1929. Use of insecticide impregnated bed nets (which has given encouraging results in malaria) may be tried to check flilariasis transmission along with the WHO recommended single dose mass chemotherapy. Biotechnological intervention methods for prevention and control of this disease will be explored. Indigenous plants with anti-filarial properties will be identified.

Tuberculosis:

Tuberculosis is one of the most devastating infectious diseases in the world today. Currently, three million people die from tuberculosis every year. Incidence and mortality rate of pulmonary tuberculosis is rising globally, both in developing and developed countries. It is estimated that about 14 million people have tuberculosis in India of which 3.5 million are sputum positive and are infectious to the community. Each year, more than 2 million people develop active tuberculosis in India and up to 5,00,000 people die. This disease is endemic in Orissa. Two major factors contributing to this deterioration are emergence of Multi Drug Resistant (MDR) tuberculosis and the pandemic of HIV (Human Immuno Deficiency Virus) infection.

Effective chemotherapy along with accurate diagnosis is the key to a successful TB control programme. The most common drugs used for the treatment of tuberculosis are rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutal, pyrazinamide and streptomycin. For the successful treatment of tuberculosis, consistent and uninterrupted medication for 6 to 8 months is required. Compliance with drug treatment in tuberculosis is a problem and there are direct inter-relations between relapses, drug regimes and compliance with treatments in tuberculosis.
MDR-TB is caused by inconsistent or partial treatment and is defined as TB resistant to the most important drugs, namely, isoniazid and rifampicin. The prevalence of MDR-TB is increasing in India which has upset the tuberculosis treatment and control programme. In case of HIV patients, it has been observed that poor absorption of anti-TB drugs contributes to acquired drug resistance and reduced effectiveness of anti-TB treatment.

Research will be strengthened in tuberculosis in the State. The role of some indigenous plants will be assessed.

Cancer:

In Orissa the prevalence of oral cancer is very high and thousands of new cases are diagnosed every year. Epidemiological studies reveal a positive correlation between oral cancer and various ways of tobacco consumption. Tobacco is being used widely in most of the rural areas. It is confirmed that prolonged consumption of betel leaves (pan) creates "field cancerization” which ultimately leads to oral cancer. The following steps are proposed to be taken:

i) Awareness programmes are to be organised.

ii) Molecular epidemiological studies are to be conducted. A systematic effort has to be made to select tumor suppressor genes, oncogenes, cell cycle regulators and viral proteins which are expressed at the beginning of the event.

iii) Economic and reliable methods for early diagnosis of cancer including molecular biological techniques etc. are to be developed.

iv) Recently, organic compounds isolated from various medicinal plants and plant products have shown anti-tumorigenic activity. Therefore, different plant extracts (e.g. limonene isolated from orange peels) may be tried for the prevention of oral cancer by using cell culture systems and suitable animal models.

Infrastructure for research:

The following specific items are identified by the Vision Group for action over the next five years:

1) Establishment of an Advanced Centre for Biotechnology at the Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar with focus on development and application of new diagnostic tools for rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases particularly in the setting of an out-break. It will do further research in the diagnosis of malaria and filariasis, and in risk factors for their transmission. It would have state of the art equipment, facilities and trained manpower to undertake research in these areas.

2) Orissa has competitive advantage in the field of traditional remedies for management of several diseases including filariasis, malaria and cancer. Promising interventions will be subjected to the scientific process of herbal/ active molecule development using test systems in vitro and in vivo. This activity will be promoted at the Institute of Life Sciences, as well as at other centres, including the Regional Medical Research Centre of ICMR at Bhubaneswar.

FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE

Biotechnology applications in the area of brood stock development, germ plasm conservation, disease and health management of aquatic animals, improved feed formulation, traditional animal breeding, shell fish technology, aquatic environmental quality management, pro-biotics, bio-remediation and bio-processing etc. have a high priority in view of increased aquaculture activities in fish and shell fish production. Orissa possesses a rich aquatic biodiversity and vast inland water resources. However, the total fish production of the State has been showing a declining trend in the past 2-3 years (1998- 2000) as compared to earlier periods (1995-1997). A biotechnological focus is essential for useful research and, above all, sustainable aquaculture development in the State.

Identification of genetic diversity of important aquatic species and genetic conservation and management of wild and captive populations will be useful. Though fish production in natural water bodies is dependent on both biological and environmental factors, genetic background plays a particularly significant role on the overall performance of a specific species. Species with high level of genetic diversity have better prospects in aquaculture in terms of higher growth rate, fecundity and resistance to environmental stress and diseases. Small and localized disturbances of the habitat due to man-made activities may lead to reduction or loss of genetic diversity of a particular species. Therefore, it is essential that valuable populations (with highest and unique genetic diversity) are identified and conservation and management measures taken, before they are lost. The modern biotechnological/ molecular genetic tools offer possibilities of assessing genetic diversity at species, population and intermediate levels.

Stock deterioration in hatchery populations due to poor management and inbreeding may result in retarded growth, reduction in reproductive performance, morphological deformities, disease occurrence and mortality of seeds. DNA marker based linkage maps may play an important role in traditional breeding programmes to help improve the quality and performance of a species in commercial aquaculture. Identification of a large number of polymorphic markers would be useful in genetic diversity assessment and management of wild as well as hatchery stocks. Secondly, these makers can be useful tools for tracking parentage and tagging juveniles during breeding programs. Further, integration of these markers into genetic linkage maps would help in identifying and mapping genes underlying commercially important traits such as body growth, disease resistance, fecundity etc. This will, in the long run, result in the production of heavier and healthier fish through marker assisted selection. The following specific measures are proposed:

i) Genetic linkage mapping and quantitative trait locus identification of commercially important fish and shellfish species.

ii) Genetic improvement of carps, catfish and prawns through selective breeding with reference to body growth and disease resistance.


iii) Information dissemination and distribution concerning improved varieties / strains in order to support hatchery management in aquaculture.

iv) Nutritional biotechnology concerning improved feed formulation in aquaculture.

FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY

6.1 Science-based agriculture had started in the early years of 20th century in India. Green revolution increased food grain production but at the cost of intensive use of irrigation water, fertilizer and other inputs. This resulted in problems of soil salinization, groundwater pollution, nutrient imbalances, emergence of new pests and disease and environmental degradation. The problem is compounded by constant rise in population. In Orissa, food production is further affected due to urbanization and the State's proneness to natural calamities like droughts, floods and cyclones. In tribal dominated areas, there is a serious situation due to malnutrition and deforestation. Hence, there is an urgent need to explore alternatives that will help to produce enough food with better nutritional quality by adopting environment-friendly technologies. It is in this context, that biotechnology has considerable potential to help.

6.2 Recent advances in recombinant technology and tissue culture have made it possible to mobilize the genes of interest (Gene Revolution) within and across the plant and animal kingdoms. It is now possible to identify, isolate, transfer and express genes almost at will. Therefore, it is possible now to produce more plant, animal and forest products with better nutritional quality, through the use of various biotechnological tools.

Biofertilizers and biopesticides :

6.3 Isolation and screening of native nitrogen fixing and phosphate solubilizing micro-organisms, preparation of organic manures from city wastes using biotechnological methods, and production and quality control of biopesticides like NPV, Trichogramma and Pseudomonas will be taken up. Agricultural and kitchen wastes can be utilized for raising high yielding varieties of crops, which ultimately will help to produce quality meat, healthy animals and small live-stock for supplemental income of the farmer.

Post-harvest technology:

6.4 Genetic improvement of horticultural crops will help in the development of processing industries. Production of secondary metabolites like flavours, pigments and perfumes as by-products of tissue culture industry needs to be given attention. Biotechnological approaches can also be used for increasing the shelf-life of vegetables and fruits.

Animal products:

6.5 Livestock encompasses a wide range of products like milk, meat and eggs. The conventional methods of producing these products are time consuming, labour intensive and less remunerative because of lower production and poor quality. With advancement in biotechnological tools, it is possible to increase production and productivity and to improve the quality of products.

6.6 The following steps will help in the improvement of live-stock:

i) Standardization of embryo transfer techniques in cows and buffaloes for rapid multiplication of elite livestock.
ii) Standardization of techniques to induce super ovulation, fertilization and embryo transfer for rapid multiplication of elite livestock.
iii) Development of protocols for production of monoclonal antibodies of important live-stock diseases prevalent in Orissa.
iv) Genetic improvement of local breeds of cows, buffaloes, goats and sheep by employing modern tools of biotechnology and genetic engineering.
v) Biotechnological applications for preventing spoilage of meat, milk and milk products.

ENVIRONMENTAL BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIO-DIVERSITY CONSERVATION

Environmental Biotechnology
5.1 The environment includes various ecological sectors. The ecological sectors in Orissa can be divided into three major categories: forest ecosystems including reserved forests, coastal ecosystems harbouring the mangrove vegetation, and many inland sectors having mining activities or mining ecosystems.

Forests:

5.2 The forest cover is declining; giving rise to deserted barren degraded waste-lands causing serious problems of soil erosion, soil nutrient loss and climatic imbalance. Deforestation also increases the threat to the survival of native and endemic vegetation. The State will take up the task of characterization and conservation (ex situ) of forest species, which include many endemic plant species which are almost on the verge of extinction due to excessive human interference.
Although in situ conservation is the ideal approach, this needs further augmentation through ex situ measures. The conservation activity should also be further supplemented with molecular taxonomic approaches. In this context, steps need to be taken for:
i) Analysis and proper scientific investigation of forest health through appropriate technologies.
ii) Formulation of scientific procedures to conserve the forest species.
iii) Development of soil biotechnological strategy for reclamation/ rehabilitation of forest cleared wastelands to develop these into active forests.
iv) Development of proper management strategies for the maintenance of existing undisturbed forest in its sound ecological state.

Mangroves:
5.3 Mangrove vegetation embraces plants belonging to several unrelated families. These plants also exhibit different degrees of salt tolerance. The mangrove species play a pivotal role in the coastal environment. The mangrove forests of Orissa provide a good breeding ground and nursery for edible fish and prawns. The forest meadows and swampy habitats support a large number of resident, as well as migratory birds. Forest products are available in abundance in this region. Gahirmatha beach, surrounded by mangrove forests, is one of the largest rookeries of Olive Ridley sea turtles in the world.

5.4 The mangrove vegetation is very important in controlling natural calamities like floods and cyclones. Preservation of mangrove vegetation in its natural condition shall be one of the immediate goals of the State.

Bioremediation:
5.5 Restoration of biota in mining areas is a major concern to the State of Orissa, since a huge land cover of the State has already been converted to wastelands due to heavy inputs of ions, mostly of heavy metals, extracted from mining activities. Phyto- and bio-remediation techniques need to be applied to such sites.

5.6 The State has witnessed rapid urbanization in the last few years. This has brought serious environmental pollution of air, water and soil. It is desirable to develop biological means to overcome these problems. Biodegradation of solid wastes is to be given top priority in the State. For example, Bhubaneswar City on an average generates nearly 400 tons of solid waste garbage daily. These materials need to be utilized in a proper way. They can be converted to organic manure through biodegradation.

Biodiversity Conservation
5.7 The various geographical terrains in the State contain tremendous bio-diversity. The forest, agriculture, marine and plant resources are both large and diverse and represent great opportunity for Biotechnological research and products. The biosphere reserve of "Similipal" and forests like "Gandhamardhan" and "Harisankar" house rich biodiversity which needs to be preserved with suitable biotechnological interventions.

Olive Ridley turtles of Gahirmatha :

5.8 Sea turtles have drawn considerable attention in recent years on account of their vulnerability and due to the fact that all the species in the world are endangered and threatened. Up to the early 1970s, our knowledge of the sea turtles that visit the coasts of India remained limited. However, the endangered status of the sea turtles led to a spurt of activity leading to collection of data on the activities of the sea turtles that visit coasts for nesting. Prevalent environmental conditions along the Orissan coast attract sea turtles, specifically
the Olive Ridley for breeding. All the three major breeding sites of Olive Ridley turtles in India are restricted to the Orissa coast. This once threatened species is no longer considered endangered due to efficient management strategies developed by experts and due to co-operation from the Central as well as the State Government. The conservation strategy of this species has become so successful that it has now been decided to remove the animal from the IUCN list of threatened species.

5.9 Unfortunately, the knowledge on the habits, migratory routes and activities of both the hatchlings and the adult Olive Ridley turtles, after they leave the coast, is negligible. These need to be explored. Also this unique species needs to be genetically characterized and finger printed.

Mangrove species:
5.10 The great diversity in the gene banks of mangrove species needs to be maintained. For example, Porteresia coarctata tateoka, belonging to family Poaceae, is of high economic value for its sustainability in high salinity and submergence. This plant species is categorized under the endangered list. Therefore, ex situ conservation of this plant is an urgent need.

Chilika lake:
5.11 The Chilika lake, which was quite productive until a few years ago, is now on the verge of a severe decline in its productivity. The State may make short and long term biotechnological interventions in order to preserve the biodiversity of this ecosystem.

PLANT AND FOREST BIOTECHNOLOGY

There is considerable scope for application of Plant and Forest Biotechnology in the State. The productivity of certain crops has declined in the State due to elevated temperature and salinity associated with drought and repeated floods. These problems can be addressed by the application of biotechnological techniques. Forests occupy 57,183.57 sq km, i.e. about 37% of the total geographical area, and play an important role in meeting the economic needs of the people of the State. The tribals in the State depend mostly on forests for their sustenance. Decrease in forest area, apart from affecting the tribal population, also affects the environment. Forest biotechnology can play an important role in mitigating these problems.
Tissue Culture :
The plant micro-propagation technology allows production of a large number of plants in a relatively small growing area, and in a short time, with a high degree of clonal phenotypic uniformity and absence of disease. In Orissa, although the practice of using tissue culture derived plants in the farming process is at a nascent stage, it deserves to be promoted. By innovative implementation of this technology in farming sectors, ornamental plants such as Caladium, Spathiphyllum, Philodendron, and plants like ginger, potato, asparagus, bamboo, banana, pineapple, papaya, strawberry and sugarcane etc. can be mass propagated through tissue culture. In order to make this possible, laboratories with skilled personnel will have to be established. A research station will be engaged in the standardization of protocols for tissue culture samplings and also for plants of different varieties so as to use them in the genetic transformation process. Large scale hardening facilities will be required for better survival of the tissue culture seedlings.
Development of genetic markers :
It is essential to develop genetic markers for identification of elite germplasm and cultivated varieties. Efforts will be made to develop molecular markers particularly for genotypes possessing important attributes like resistance to specific diseases, such as bacterial leaf blight, stem borer infestation and blast in rice and other crops.
Some of the local land races are highly resistant to wilting, particularly in case of solanacious crops. Hence, it is essential to identify the genes of interest and to isolate them for genetic transformation work.
A few land races and wild species of rice possess resistance to salt and drought stress. Efforts will be made to locate these genes and to transfer them into cultivated varieties through wide hybridization followed by embryo rescue technique. Marker assisted selection approaches would be developed and used to evolve such stress-tolerant crop varieties. Desirable genes will be identified by in-situ hybridisation.
Molecular characterization of nematode resistant genes in green gram, black gram and common vegetables will be taken up.
Improvement in yield and quality:
The yield levels of rice, pulses and oilseeds have more or less stabilized. There are two ways by which yield status can be improved: (i) exploitation of hybrid vigour, (ii) identification of QTLs (Quantitative Trait Loci) in different crops and their use in genetic transformation. Yield of vegetables and fruits also can be improved by developing hybrid varieties.
It is essential to bring genetic improvement in the crops commonly grown by the tribal population like millet, rice, beans, amaranth etc. for enhanced nutritional quality. Genetic improvement of major food crops for increased starch and vitamin content will be taken up, particularly for rice, potato, green gram and black gram.
Metabolic engineering of plants:
The crop productivity in the non-coastal area of the State is severely reduced primarily due to two major reasons: drought and elevated temperature. Coastal belt productivity is often also reduced because of floods and salinity. In order to sustain optimum productivity in these regions, there is a need for development of transgenic plant species that can with-stand these conditions. Several scientific organizations are capable of carrying in-depth research activities in this line. A long-term plan is proposed to be set up for developing plant species resistant to drought, elevation of temperature, salinity and floods, employing biotechnological methods.
Restoration and improvement of forests:
There is an urgent need to develop biotechnological tools for forest restoration that can help improve forest and forest products in the following areas:
i) Genetic improvement of timber yielding crops like teak, sal, sisoo etc. and selection of desirable types and their molecular characterization.
ii) Propagation of forest trees through macro- and micro- propagation methods particularly for the timber yielding species.
iii) Yield improvement of non-timber species viz., oil-yielding trees like Azadiracta indica (neem) and Madhuca latifolia (mahua) through gene transfer.
iv) Mass propagation by tissue culture and molecular characterization and genetic improvement of different bamboo species. Bamboo is an important raw material for construction of houses in the rural areas and is called the poor man's timber. Two main species of bamboo i.e., Dendrocalamus strictus and Bambosa arundinacea are dominant in Orissa's forests. These species need immediate attention due to their overexploitation. Hence, identification and selection of plus clumps, their conservation and mass propagation needs to be taken up on priority basis.
Biotechnological work in plant species shall be taken up on the following lines:
i) Exploitation, collection, establishment and evaluation of tree germplasm of species like Tectona grandis(teak), Santnum album (sandalwood), Petrocarpus santilinus(red sanders), Dalbergia sisoo(sisoo), M. latifolia(mahua), bamboo etc. with due emphasis on germplasm conservation.
ii) Selection of candidate plus tree in each case and conducting of provenance and progeny trial.
iii) Macro- and micro-propagation studies and standardization of propagation techniques and mass propagation of plus and elite trees for operational planting.
iv) Field trial of plants raised by tissue culture.
v) Establishment of clonal seed orchard for mass production of improved seed.
vi) Data base storage and retrieval of tree germplasm.
vii) Exploration and collection of seeds of various provenance and plus trees of priority species from the areas of natural distribution. Selection based on fast growing nature, straight bole, resistance to diseases and pests, and good adaptability.
viii) Studies on the floral biology and breeding systems.
ix) Evolving vegetative propagation techniques including macro propagation methods and mass propagation by tissue culture.
x) Establishment of germplasm/gene banks for at least mid-term storage

INVENTORIZATION, CONSERVATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF BIO-RESOURCES

Medicinal and aromatic plants:
3.1 The volume of trade in herbal products is quite large. A recent survey estimates the total turn over of Ayurvedic and other herbal products to be around Rs.23 billion per year.
3.2 Presently only a few medicinal plants are cultivated in the State. Furthermore, rapid urbanization of the State brings a great threat i.e. the shrinkage of forest lands. Therefore, a step-wise program will be carried out to conserve medicinal and aromatic plants (especially ex-situ) and also to genetically characterize these plants. Gene banks would be established for endangered and endemic taxa, those employed in tribal and folk medicine, and others that are commercially exploited.

3.3 The tribals in Orissa use many crude herbal products for health care The biosphere reserve of "Similipal" and forests like "Gandhamardhan" and "Harisankar" house a large number of medicinal plants. The herbal products derived out of these plants need to be validated scientifically before commercialisation in the form of new therapeutic formulations.
3.4 Studies on bio-prospecting for new genes and gene products would also be encouraged.
Mangrove species :
3.5 The micro-flora (bacteria) of mangrove eco-systems comprises several phosphate metabolizing species. Their identification and characterization will be carried out in detail.
3.6 The specific physiological and biochemical characteristics of salt loving plants can be a resource for genetic manipulation. These species can be explored at the genetic and molecular levels for their salt tolerance properties.
Horse shoe crab:
3.7 The horse shoe crab, Limulus polyphemus is available in U.S.A. only. Similar crabs viz., Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, Tachypleus tridentatus and T. gigas are also available in Orissa coast. The haemolymph of this crab is used for testing the presence of bacterial endotoxin (pyrogen testing) of pharmaceutical products. Therefore, the haemolymph of the locally available crab can be used for development of indigenous pyrogen testing kits in India. The current regulations of CPCSA do not allow the use of rabbits for pyrogen testing and hence only imported kits are currently in use in India for pyrogen testing. This is one area, which can be taken up for immediate benefit.

VISION STATEMENT AND THRUST AREAS

Vision Statement :
2.1 This Document subscribes to the same Vision Statement that has been adopted in the Vision Document of Government of India released by Prime Minister, namely:

“Attaining new heightsin biotechnology research,shaping biotechnology into a premier precision tool of the future for creation of wealth and ensuring social justice -specially for the welfare of the poor.”

Thrust Areas :
2.2 This Document has identified the following thrust areas of activity:
i) Inventorization, Conservation and Characterization of Bio-resources
ii) Plant and Forest Biotechnology
iii) Environmental Biotechnology and Biodiversity Conservation
iv) Food and Nutrition Security
v) Fisheries and Aquaculture
vi) Medical Research and Application
vii) Disaster Management with Biotechnological Intervention
viii) Human Resource Development
ix) Biotechnological Industries
x) Institutional Framework and Networking

BIOTECHNOLOGY VISION FOR THE STATE OF ORISSA

(For the 10th fifth year plan)
Retrived from http://orissagov.nic.in/biotechnology/biotechnology.htm


INTRODUCTION

1.1 Orissa is set to march towards a new journey, a new goal and a new destination. The State is bestowed with rich minerals and bio-resources, a unique cultural heritage, luxuriant forest and wildlife, the sprawling Chilika lake, a bountiful coastline and much more. Orissa has been successful enough in drawing global attention owing to its multi-dimensional splendour. A breeze of awakening and progress is now blowing across the State. Orissa is anxious to register its presence in the field of Biotechnology. This document identifies areas of priority for the Tenth Five Year Plan. A vision document with a longer prospective is under preparation.
1.2 The State is located on the eastern coast of the Indian peninsula. The State covers an area of 155,707 sq km and has 31.66 million people (1991 census). The population density is 202 persons/sq km, slightly below the national average of 265 persons/sq km. Orissa lies in the tropical zone between the latitudes of 17º-47’ and 22º-34’ N and longitudes of 81º-22’ and 87º-29’ E. The State can be divided into four distinct physiographical regions viz., the Northern Plateau, Eastern Ghats, central table land and coastal plains. Orissa is drained by three major rivers, the Mahanadi, the Brahmani and the Baitarani. The average rainfall varies between 1,200 mm and 1,600 mm. The State has been facing challenges on account of poverty, unemployment, mal nutrition, inadequate health services, and rapid degradation of environment and natural resources. Orissa is also prone to natural disasters like floods, cyclones and droughts.
1.3 Orissa is predominantly rural with a total of 86.62% rural population. Scheduled tribe and scheduled caste populations constitute 22.4% and 14.66% respectively of the total population of the State. The total livestock population is 22.74 million (1992 livestock census). More than 80% of the population works in the agricultural sector. Around 48% of the State’s population is below the poverty line as against the national average of 33.4%. The infant mortality rate of Orissa is 81% against the national average of 74%. The unemployment situation in the State is quite acute.
1.4 Forests continue to be a source of income and food for a majority of the tribal population. The recorded forest area constitutes 36.73% of the geographic area of the State. The forest cover constitutes 30.21% as against the national forest cover of 19.29% (SFR 1999). There are four forest types namely:
i) Tropical Semi Evergreen
ii) Tropical Moist Deciduous
iii) Tropical Dry Deciduous
iv) Littoral and Swamp Forests
1.5 There are two National Parks and 18 Wildlife Sanctuaries covering 5.11% of the area of the State. The Similipal National Park, also a Tiger Reserve, has been declared as a Biosphere Reserve. The Gahirmatha Wildlife Sanctuary, a mangrove ecosystem, is a famous nesting ground of the Olive Ridley sea turtle.
1.6 Orissa has one of the longest coastlines of the country covering 480 km. Chilika lake, the largest brackish water lake of Asia, with an area of 1140 sq km, is one of the six “Ramsar” sites in the country.
1.7 This perspective document, envisaging biotechnology-based socio-economic development, has been prepared by an Expert Group (Annexure I) comprising of renowned scientists of the country, and experts and officials from the State, keeping in view the State’s strengths and the needs of its people.

Chief Minister's Message

Biotechnology and Orissa

According to the Census of 2001, Orissa comprises 4.74% of India's landmass with 36.71 million people which accounts for 3.57% of the population in the country has been lagging behind other states for various reasons.

The State Orissa has not only abundant mineral resources, but also plenty of water resources. It's long coastline and diverse forest cover has been gifted by nature. Nearly 95% of our State's population are living in rural areas that were neglected in the past. But Prime Minister Sri Atal Behari Vajpayee and Chief Minister. Shri Naveen Patnaik both promise to change the fate of Orissa. They are determined for building a vibrant, just and prosperous modern Orissa, which lost its backbone during the Super Cyclone of 1999. Subsequently, natural calamities like high flood and famine have ravaged the State. Yet a ray of hope was marked with the advent of a coalition Govt. under the leadership of Shri Naveen Pattnaik. In Planning Commission's Orissa Development Report, the Chief Minister, Shri Patnaik's message drew everybody's attention. He said, "Even after 50 years of planning, the State is plagued by appalling poverty with very little diversification of its economy. We have a plan gap and a budget gap while many other States are marching ahead in building a modern and self-reliant economy. What is necessary in such a environment is to marshall the scarce resources of the State by the concerted efforts to build it's capital base in the various sectors to increase their productivity, so as to promote a rapid rise in the standard of living of the people offering opportunities of employment to all, who are employable and willing to work".

Orissa is grappled with unemployment problem but to tackle this our Governor Shri M.M. Rajendran in his last Independence Day's message has emphasized on Biotechnology. He says, 'unemployment among you is a problem that stares at our face in the State. To tackle this problem, every effort has to be made to harness the resources of the State and take advantage of new opportunities. The State has vast scope for sunrise industries like Information Technology and Biotechnology. The State capital has the potential to become a major centre for Information Technology and Biotechnology and other application of science and technology. The Institute of Life Science, already taken over by the Government of India, was dedicated to the nation by our Prime Minister and it will provide great thrust to research in this area leading to applications in
Medical Biotechnology.'

So also our Chief Minister, Shri Naveen Patnaik has underlined the scope of biotechnology in his last Independence Day message i.e. "Orissa is endowed with natural bounty. We do not have shortage of manpower. There is ample scope for development in Tourism, Information Technology, Biotechnology, Mineral-based Industries and Horticulture sectors in Orissa. Exploiting these opportunities, we are trying to take Orissa ahead in the new millennium."

Keeping in view, the Tenth Five Year Plan, Orissa Govt. has a quique vision for the growth of Biotechnology, known as"Biotechnology Vision for the State of Orissa." This document was published by the Science and Technology Department of the Government of Orissa.

We are happy to learn that State Government's vision comes with a firm commitment for a speedy and suitable implementation structures to convert the biosources of the State into economic wealth. Our Chief Minister is also contemplating to establish a Biotechnological Park in the State.

The State Govt. recently handed over the Institute of Life Sciences to Government of India which our Prime Minister dedicated to the nation on July 15, 2003. This Institute has been applauded for its research activities in the field of Molecular Biology of aging and cancer, infectious diseases like malaria and filaria, bio-resources development, conservation and also in the utilization and environmental Biotechnology.

In the near future, Orissa may find a place in the India, map of Biotechnology to ameliorate the condition of the poor and ensure a better living condition for all.

Source : Shri Gurukalyan Mohapatra is a Freelance Journalist and at present working as the Chief Editor of Utkal Prasanga, Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Orissa, Bhubaneswar.

Biotechnology Education in Orissa

Presently, Orissa is home to the following Biotech colleges.
1. Department of Biotechnology, Utkal University
Vani-Vihar, Bhubaneswar - 751004, INDIA
Course: M.Sc. Biotechnology (Regular Programme) – 10 seats

2. Department of Biotechnology, Fakir Mohan University
Vyasa Vihar, Balasore - 756019, Orissa.
Phone: 06782 - 264244/261711/263732Website: http://www.fmuniversity.org/
Courses: M.Sc. Biotechnology (Regular Programme), M.Phil, Ph.D.

3.Sambalpur University
Jyoti Vihar, Burla, SambalpurPin: 768019 Orissa
Website: http://www.sambalpuruniversitypgc.in/
Course: M.Sc Biotechnology (Self Financing)

4. Dept. of Biotechnology, North Orissa University
Sriram Chandra Bihar, Takatpur, Baripada,
Mayurbhanj 757003Phone: 06792-255127Fax: 06792-255127
Website: http://mayurbhanj.nic.in/nou/home.htm
Course:M.Sc. (Biotechnology)

5. Department of Botany, Ravenshaw College
Cuttack, Orissa
Phone: 0671 - 2613268
Website: www.ravenshaw.ac.in
Course: M.Sc - Biotechnology (24 seats)

6. Majhighariani Institute or Technology & Science
(Affiliated to Berhampur University & Biju Patnaik University of Tech.)
Sriram Vihar, Bhujabal, Rayagada 765001 (Orissa)Phone: 06856-233146/233154
Email: admission@mitscollege.orgWebsite: http://www.mitscollege.ac.in/
Courses:B-Tech BioTechnology - 40 Seats BSc BioTechnology - 64 Seats
MSc Biotechnology - 64 Seats

7. Gandhi Institute of Engineering & Technology
(Affiliated to Berhampur University & Biju Patnaik University of Tech.)
GIET Campus, Gunupur, rayagada, Orissa
Courses:B-Tech BioTechnology - 30 Seats
MSc Biotechnology - 60 Seats
MSc Industrial Biotechnology - 60 Seats
MSc Bioiformatics - 30 Seats

8. Trident Academy of Creative Technology
A/127, Sahid Nagar,Bhubaneswar - 751 007
Phone: 0674-2545060, 2545776FAX: 0674-2503749E-mail: tacttrust@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.orissaeducation.net/rd.asp?url=http://www.tactindia.orgCourses:B.Sc (Biotechnology)
CourseM.Sc (Biotechnology)

9. Royal School of Management & Technology (RSMT)
(Affiliated to Utkal University)IDCO Tower 2000, Mancheswar Industrial Estate,
Bhubaneswar - 751010MPhone: 0674 - 2585294
Website: http://www.orissaeducation.net/rd.asp?url=http://www.royalschool.ac.inE-Mail: career@royalschoool.org
Courses:B.Sc (Hons) Biotechnolohy and M.Sc.(Bio-Technology)

10. Neelachal Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS)
(Affiliated to Utkal University)O C H C Complex,
Block-IIIJanpath, Unit-III, Bhubaneswar 751001
Phone: +91-674-2395227, 2531567, 5533615Fax: 91-674-2395227
E-Mail:info@nimsindia.comWebsite: http://www.nimsindia.com/
Courses:B.Sc (Hons) Biotechnolohy and M.Sc.(Bio-Technology)

11. MITS School of Biotechnology
(Affiliated to Utkal University & Approved by Govt. of Orissa)2(P) Infocity Patia,
Bhubaneswar - 751001, Orissa
Phone: 0674-2741584/6537795 Email: admission@msb.ac.in
Website: http://www.msb.ac.in/
Courses: BSc Biotechnology - 64 Seats,MSc Biotechnology - 64 Seats,
MSc Bioinformatics - 32 seats