editor ’ s note
Let ’ s welcome 2017 with positivity !
So here we meet again in a brand new year , energized and full of fresh ideas . The last one year has been full of action . Be it the new product launches or policy decisions , R & D outcomes or events , the ground zero activities have gained pace . However , despite numerous positives , the pending list continues to be huge as well .
At the same time , 2017 is expected to bring out historic decisions from policymakers . There is much that requires to be done in the new year . Will the crucial go ahead on GM products come this time ? Will the year seal the fate of Mustard and Brinjal ? What about universal health coverage or increase in funding allocations to healthcare and R & D ? Will the BRAI bill see the light in the new year ? These are among the few crucial questions that may get answers or maybe not .
This edition of BioVoice features detailed cover story on demonetization move and the immediate steps taken by the government and industry to promote cashless bioeconomy . The special story ‘ Flashback 2016 ’ looks at the various policy initiatives taken within bioscience industry in the previous year . The ‘ BioChat ’ section this time features topics that had been left untouched in the magazine till now . While Ms Poonam Muttreja , Executive Director , Population Foundation of India tells us about the factors related to family planning policies in India , Mr Tamaal Roy , Chief Executive Officer , Biomatiques Identification Solutions talks about the relevance of biometrics and affordability of iris recognition technology .
The detailed coverage report on the BioEconomy Conclave 2016 is among the major highlights of the issue . There is much more to explore in this edition .
This is the time to forget bitter moments and look ahead to the best that might happen in the times ahead . Let ’ s all welcome the New Year 2017 with open arms . We hope that the barriers get broken and clear roadmap is laid out . While we can ’ t predict what exactly will turn out in the future , staying positive does matter !
Wish you all a very happy new year 2017 !
R A H U L K O U L
BIOVOICENEWS . COM 07