India’s Biosecurity Framework for Emerging Biothreats

As biotechnologies advance rapidly, India faces growing risks from engineered pathogens, non-state actors, and dual-use research. Discover the current framework, critical gaps highlighted by recent events like the ricin plot and BWC conference, and urgent steps for a robust national biosecurity system.

In late 2025, India’s biosecurity vulnerabilities have been thrust into the spotlight. The November ricin terror plot linked to ISIS-Khorasan—where a Hyderabad doctor was arrested for allegedly preparing the deadly toxin—and the December conference marking the 50th anniversary of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in New Delhi underscore the escalating threats from synthetic biology and deliberate misuse.

With tools like CRISPR enabling easier manipulation of biology, biosecurity—preventing intentional misuse of pathogens and toxins—is more critical than ever.

What is Biosecurity and Why It Matters

Biosecurity involves measures to prevent the deliberate release or misuse of biological agents, distinct from biosafety (accidental releases). It protects human, animal, and plant health under a One Health approach.

The BWC, effective since 1975, bans biological weapons and has 189 state parties, including India.

Emerging Biothreats Facing India in 2025

India’s challenges include:

• Demographic and Geographic Risks: High population density and porous borders facilitate rapid spread.
• Agricultural Vulnerability: Bio-attacks on crops or livestock threaten food security for millions.
• Non-State Actors: The 2025 ricin plot involved castor bean-derived toxin, highlighting terrorist exploration of bioweapons.
• Technological Advances: Synthetic biology and gene editing lower barriers for engineered threats.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar noted bioterrorism as a “serious concern” at the BWC conference.

India’s Existing Biosecurity Framework

Key institutions:

• Department of Biotechnology (DBT): Oversees lab safety and biotech regulation.
• National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC): Handles surveillance.
• Departments for Animal Husbandry and Plant Quarantine: Sector-specific protections.

Laws include the Weapons of Mass Destruction Act (2005) and Environment Protection Act (1986). India participates in the BWC and Australia Group.

High-containment labs (BSL-3/4) are expanding under One Health initiatives.

Critical Gaps and Challenges

Despite progress, experts identify:

• Fragmented governance lacking a unified national framework.
• Outdated laws not addressing synthetic biology or DNA screening.
• Limited coordination across human-animal-environment sectors.
• Inadequate high-containment infrastructure and engineered threat surveillance.
• Mid-tier ranking (around 66th) in global health security assessments, with declining response capabilities.

The BWC lacks verification mechanisms, complicating enforcement.

Global Best Practices for Inspiration

• USA: National Biodefense Strategy with mandatory DNA order screening.
• Australia: Unified Biosecurity Act covering synthetic biology.
• EU and UK: Integrated One Health and rapid response strategies.

India can adapt these for a centralized authority.

The Way Forward: Strengthening India’s Biosecurity

Priorities include:

1. Establish a National Biosecurity Authority for coordination.
2. Update laws to regulate gene editing and dual-use research.
3. Invest in BSL labs, genomic surveillance, and AI tools.
4. Adopt One Health integration and microbial forensics.
5. Enhance global cooperation, leading Global South efforts in BWC reforms.

Conclusion: A Proactive Path to Biosecurity Resilience

As 2025 draws to a close, bridging biosecurity gaps is vital for India’s national security, public health, and economic stability. A modern, unified framework will safeguard against emerging biothreats while fostering responsible biotechnology innovation.

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