Ministry of Science and Technology
The Regional Centre for Biotechnology Act, 2016, formalizes the establishment of the Regional Centre for Biotechnology as an institution of national importance. The Centre, initially established through an executive order in 2009 following an agreement with UNESCO, focuses on advancing biotechnology education, training, and research in India and the broader region. The Act falls under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Department of Biotechnology.
Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The Act was enacted on July 29, 2016, and came into effect on March 1, 2017. It comprises 46 sections and, while not explicitly divided into chapters, it covers various aspects of the Centre’s operations, from its establishment and objectives to its governance and funding.
Act Governed By:
The Regional Centre for Biotechnology is governed by the Central Government of India, which plays a crucial role in its funding, policy direction, and oversight.
On Whom It Is Applicable:
The Act applies to the Regional Centre for Biotechnology, its governing bodies (Board of Governors, Programme Advisory Committee), staff, students, and individuals or institutions collaborating with the Centre.
Penalties/Punishments:
The Act does not specify penalties directly but empowers the Central Government to review the Centre’s functioning and the Board of Governors to take disciplinary measures against employees as needed.
Important Pointers:
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Declares the Regional Centre for Biotechnology as an institution of national importance.
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Defines the Centre’s objectives, including advancing biotechnology knowledge, capacity building, and regional cooperation.
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Outlines the Centre’s functions, encompassing education, training, research, and collaboration.
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Establishes the governance structure, including the Board of Governors, Programme Advisory Committee, Executive Director, and other officers.
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Provides for funding through grants and loans from the Central Government and other sources.
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Mandates annual reports and accounts to ensure transparency and accountability.