BIOTECHNOLOGY

Biotechnology course was introduced as an optional subject at B.Sc level in 2002 as a Self- Finance Course with Department of Genetics as the Nodal Department. The course was started with three combinations: B.Sc (Biotechnology, Botany, and Chemistry), B.Sc (Biotechnology, Zoology, and Chemistry), B.Sc (Biotechnology, Microbiology, and Chemistry). Initially for one year staff of Genetics & Microbiology handled the course. During 2003 candidates with M.Sc (Biotechnology) qualification were appointed. Presently subject is offered only with either Botany or Zoology and Chemistry.The response to the course is overwhelming and most sought after among all the UG programs. Over 2500 applicants competed for 60 seats during academic year 2006-2007. This is amply reflected by the cut-off mark, which was 92% scored at the +2 level. The admissions are open to only those with biological science background at +2 level. Majority of them are from rural background and Telugu media students are in large numbers. Their performance truly reflects their academic merit with majority of them passing out with first division and distinction. The objective of most of them is to go in for higher study and they have been able to clear the PG entrance examination. Ajay Chandra of 2003 batch was selected to the integrated PhD program at IISC, Sahitya of the same batch and Sandeep of 2006 batch were recruited by Reddy Labs. The students seem to be fascinated by the growth of knowledge in this field and research and employment potential. Rightfully biotechnology can be considered happening subject next to IT.

After IT, Biotechnology was in boom in the beginning of the 21st century. The scientific community has developed various strategies for the development of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), Cloning of animals, DNA sequencing etc. There is a drastic increase in the incidence of life style diseases such as Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, AIDS, Hepatitis, Heart failures and Liver damages, increased risk of various genetic disorders and rise in the pollution. In view of this, there was a need for the development of preventive and cure methods. Several Biotechnology Companies have come forward and developed r DNA vaccines such as Hepatitis-B, r-DNA hormones such as Insulin, Growth hormone etc, Molecular Diagnostics for the quick diagnosis of infectious diseases. Several genome sequencing projects and development of Databases were initiated. Strategies were also developed to reduce the environmental pollution, and the levels of toxic pollutants. In view of these scientific developments, the Biotechnology Course was introduced at B.Sc level to train the basic concepts of biotechnology and implementing strategies such as development of Genetically Modified Organisms for the production of various Heath Care Products and Organ Transplantation, development and use of Biofertilizers, Bioremediation, Bioleaching, etc.

Since 2003 the Department is actively engaged in development of infrastructure of the lab, installation of equipments and upgradation of the curriculum from time to time and to make it practical oriented. The department has received UGC-BSRG grant in 2007-08, which was utilized for the strengthening of lab facilities .The department has also received financial assistance from DBT during 2009-10 under Star Status Scheme. The department has established a well sophisticated lab with the major grants from UGC-BSRG, DBT, allocated funds from CPE-XI plan, 12B, annual Autonomy grant and Self-Finance grant etc.