Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Feb 25: The economic value of Karnataka’s biotechnology sector has surged to $39.2 billion (approximately Rs 3.25 lac crore), accounting for over 10% of the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), according to the Karnataka Bioeconomy Report 2025.
The report highlights that Karnataka contributes approximately 21% to India's total biotech output. The state's bioeconomy has recorded a compounded growth of 26.5%, rising from $31 billion in 2023.
Currently, the sector adds nearly $10 billion to the GSDP every quarter. The biopharma segment remains the dominant player, contributing $16.44 billion, driven by biologics, biosimilars, vaccines, and diagnostics.
Industrial biotechnology has emerged as the fastest-growing division, contributing $11.46 billion. This growth is largely attributed to fermentation-based industries, biofuels, enzymes, and eco-friendly materials.
In terms of regional contribution, Bengaluru Urban district holds a 54% share of the state’s bioeconomy. Mysuru contributes 8.7%, while Belagavi and Dakshina Kannada districts together account for over 9% of the output.
The year 2025 saw the addition of 218 new biotech startups, bringing the total number in the state to 1,451. Over 75% of these firms are operating within the life sciences and health-tech sectors.
Speaking at the report launch, IT/BT minister Priyank Kharge said, "It is a matter of pride that Karnataka’s bioeconomy has crossed $39 billion and contributes more than 10 per cent to the GSDP. Biotechnology is no longer confined to laboratories; it is a major driver of economic growth, industrial innovation, and social impact."
The report was jointly published by the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS), functioning under the IT/BT department, and the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE). The report was released by minister Priyank Kharge along with IT/BT department secretary Dr Manjula N and KITS managing director Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur.