The Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), under the Department of Biotechnology, hosted the second edition of its annual industry-business conclave, SYNCHN 2025, at its Faridabad campus. The event brought together leaders from industry, academia, funding agencies, and policy circles to accelerate India’s role in global health innovation through collaborative ecosystems.
Setting the tone for the event, THSTI Executive Director Prof. Ganesan Karthikeyan emphasized the need for large, multidisciplinary projects and stronger academic–industry linkages to drive innovation. He reiterated THSTI’s commitment to fostering such collaborative frameworks.
A highlight of the event was the “Insights into Translational Science” session, where industry partners showcased impactful collaborations with THSTI. Speakers included:
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Dr. Prabuddha Kundu (Premas Biotech) – Reaffirmed India’s leadership in vaccine development.
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Dr. Sivakumar Natarajan (Miltenyi Biotec) – Stressed the need for specialized CGT training to bridge talent gaps.
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Dr. Khalid (Panacea Biotec) – Discussed multi-level collaboration for vaccine development under ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.
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Dr. Varun Sureja (Sundyota Numandis) – Highlighted successful tech transfers and indigenous microbiome innovation.
The “Expanding Capacities” session spotlighted THSTI’s new infrastructure, including the upcoming Translational Research Facility (TRF), the Medical Research Centre (MRC), and the proposed Biopark at the NCR Biotech Science Cluster, aiming to streamline product development from research to manufacturing.
A dynamic panel on “Challenges and Opportunities in Industry–Academia Collaboration” addressed hurdles in commercialization, R&D alignment, and sustainable pricing models.
Delivering a special address, Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, Secretary, DBT and DG, BRIC, called on the private sector to fund innovations that align with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, while emphasizing inclusive and sustainable biotech growth.
Further sessions included:
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A fireside chat on deep-tech investments with Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman (ANRF India), underlining the importance of quality collaborations.
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A national and global perspective session on building a vibrant deep-tech ecosystem and bridging the gap between research and commercialization.
Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, addressed attendees virtually, projecting strong growth in India’s bioeconomy by 2030, driven by strategic initiatives like Bio-E3.
The event concluded with student-industry engagements, a pitching session, and theme-based breakout discussions between THSTI innovators and potential collaborators, reinforcing THSTI’s role as a key driver of health innovation in India.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
