New DBT call seeks game-changing research to strengthen the Northeast’s bio-economy
DBT India has issued a nationwide call for innovative scientific proposals under the Himalayan Bio resource Mission Programme of the North Eastern Region, seeking projects that can enhance productivity, conserve biodiversity and support community livelihoods across the Himalayan belt of the Northeast.
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, has opened submissions for researchers aiming to work on plant, animal, microbial and environmental resources. The call is designed to attract transformative ideas that combine technology, traditional knowledge and community partnerships to unlock the region’s rich biological potential.
India Seeks Transformative Ideas for the Northeast’s Bio-resources
The Government has invited scientists and academic institutions to submit proposals that address the core challenges of the Himalayan ecosystems. The call emphasises improving crop productivity, strengthening high-value species, developing climate-resilient varieties and creating new opportunities through bioresource-based industries. Proposals can be submitted until 19 January 2026, and selected projects will run initially for three years.
A Mission to Build Scientific Strength in the Himalayan Belt
The North East India region has large amounts of biodiverse ecosystems from tropical rainforests to alpine tundra and other similar landscapes. According to DBT, recognising the potential Economic and Ecological Benefits of Biodiversity within the Himalayan Region, it is necessary to implement targeted Science and Technology programs and projects that address Climate Change and Species Degradation resulting from Climate Change and the ineffectiveness of Local Processing Systems on above mentioned Environmental Impacts. DBT introduced the Himalayan Bioresource Mission in 2021 to create a framework to support long-term Scientific Research and Community-driven Development within the Himalayan Region of Northeast India.
Under the Himalayan Bio-resource Mission, DBT will be accepting Research Proposals that demonstrate Scientific Merit and Direct Benefits to Society through their Research Activities. All proposals must include at least one Institute located within the Himalayan Region of Northeast India to ensure that the Region remains the primary focus of the overall Research.
Priority Areas: From High-Value Crops to Climate Resilience
The programme outlines five major verticals, encouraging applicants to select themes with clear economic and ecological relevance.
1. Plant and Agricultural Resources
The call highlights both staple and high-value crops such as rice, apple, mango, potato, jackfruit, guava and underutilised species including ginger, turmeric, kokum, bay leaf, Kachai lemon and king chilli. Scientists are encouraged to use advanced biotechnological tools to preserve unique germplasm and develop improved varieties suitable for local climates and terrains. An additional focus is on expanding the cultivation of cash crops and optimising land use to raise productivity for small and marginal farmers.
2. Insect and Animal Resources
Researchers may propose studies on insects traditionally used in food and medicine across the Northeast, including species from Coleoptera, Orthoptera and Lepidoptera groups. The call also encourages interventions in fisheries, covering fish such as Rohu, Catla, Mahseer, minor carps, catfish and eels. On the livestock side, the Mission prioritises cattle, yak, mithun, goats, pigs, chicken and duck species that significantly contribute to local incomes and cultural practices in the region.
3. Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
A major research area includes identifying leads for phytopharmaceutical drugs and nutraceutical products derived from Himalayan species. The document lists several priority plants such as Gaultheria, bamboo varieties, Swertia chiraita, Nardostachys jatamansi and Valeriana wallichii. Value-addition opportunities in aromatic plants—such as agarwood, patchouli, citronella and sugandhmantr are highlighted for their potential in wellness, food and cosmetic industries.
4. Microbial Resources
The Northeast is considered a hotspot for beneficial microbes. Projects may work on microbial identification and applications relevant to industry, nutrition or community use. Examples listed in the call include Penicillium, Aspergillus, hydrogen-producing bacteria, microalgae and cellulolytic and keratinolytic microbes—species that can contribute to waste management, clean fuels or value-added products.
5. Environmental Sciences and Eco-restoration
The Mission emphasises the need for sustainable waste management, restoration of degraded landscapes and climate-responsive strategies. Researchers are encouraged to develop models that support native species recovery, improve soil and water systems and strengthen the region’s capacity to adapt to climate change challenges.
Who Can Apply: Strict Eligibility Rules Laid Out
Scientists working in recognised Indian institutions, universities and government colleges may apply. However, proposals must involve a Northeast-based principal investigator to ensure local relevance and regional implementation.
Multi-institution proposals are allowed, but more than 50% of the project budget must be allocated to institutions located in the Northeast.
The call also outlines several restrictions:
- Applicants with five ongoing DBT-funded projects are not eligible.
- Institutions must have completed financial settlements for earlier DBT projects.
- Non-profit organisations must provide statutory documents, including registration certificates and audited statements.
- Private profit-making companies and start-ups cannot apply under this scheme.
- Proposals that are incomplete or do not meet eligibility norms will be rejected.
Each proposal must include a flowchart explaining the research plan, methodology and institutional roles.
How to Apply: Mandatory eProMIS Submission
Applications must be submitted only through DBT’s electronic project management system, eProMIS. The call advises scientists to ensure all fields are completed before submission, as partially filled applications are automatically saved as drafts and will not be considered unless fully submitted. Technical support is available through the eProMIS helpdesk, and DBT has stated that no proposal sent outside the portal will be accepted for review. Once submitted, proposals will undergo shortlisting, screening and evaluation as per DBT norms, with scientific merit, community relevance and feasibility playing key roles in final selection.
Why the Mission Matters for the Northeast
The Himalayan states of the Northeast hold tremendous potential for agriculture, traditional medicine, aromatic industries, fisheries and microbial innovation. However, challenges such as climate variability, difficult terrain and limited processing facilities restrict growth. By promoting high-impact scientific projects, the Mission aims to create income-generating opportunities, strengthen local value chains and preserve ecological balance.
Researchers say that improved planting materials, better livestock breeds, value-added plant products and microbial innovations could significantly enhance the region’s bio-economy over the coming years.
Mini Explainer: What Is the Himalayan Bio resource Mission Programme?
- A DBT initiative to develop the biological resources of the Himalayan region in the Northeast.
- Focuses on plants, animals, microbes, medicinal species and environmental restoration.
- Aims to link scientific research with community benefits and economic development.
- Supports projects that strengthen climate resilience and sustainable resource use.