We, at BioE3 Strain Resource Centre (BioE3 SRC), BRIC-NCCS, Pune uphold strict policy and compliance standards to ensure that the operation of the repository and the use of its strains adhere to all relevant regulations and ethical norms.
Below is an overview of our framework:
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Intellectual Property & Licensing: Every strain in the repository is distributed under a clear licensing framework. This ensures fair access for users while protecting the rights of strain depositors. Licensing agreements define how a strain can be used royalty or benefit-sharing if applicable, and obligations to acknowledge or share improvements. Our approach follows international best practices for biological resource sharing, tailored to India’s legal context. Users and depositors are required to sign agreements that formalize these terms, creating a transparent IP environment that encourages innovation and collaboration rather than litigation.
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Regulatory Compliance: The repository operates in full compliance with Government of India regulations for biotechnology and environmental safety. We adhere to the guidelines of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) for handling and transferring biological materials. All genetically engineered strains are managed under the rules notified under the Environment (Protection) Act (1986). Additionally, for strains originating from India’s biodiversity, we ensure compliance with the Biological Diversity Act (2002) and the regulations of the National Biodiversity Authority. Prior approvals or notices are integrated into our process.
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Alignment with National Policies: The initiative dovetails with India’s national biotech policies and missions. In particular, it supports the objectives of the BioE3 policy for fostering high-performance biomanufacturing by making key biological assets readily available to innovators. We continuously update our practices in line with DBT guidelines and any new national frameworks that emerge.
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Ethical Use Declaration: All users and depositors are required to commit to an ethical use declaration. This means ensuring that strains from the repository will not be used for any harmful, non-peaceful, or environmentally irresponsible purposes.