Correct option is B
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Key Facts:
Primary ministry responsible for public health, health policy, and family planning in India.
It has two key departments:
Department of Health and Family Welfare
Department of Health Research
Oversees major programs like:
National Health Mission (NHM)
Ayushman Bharat - PMJAY
Universal Immunization Programme
Plays a critical role in managing epidemics, pandemics (e.g., COVID-19), and public health infrastructure.
Also regulates medical education and oversees institutions like AIIMS, ICMR, and NCDC.
Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)
Key Facts:
Established: 2012
Type: Not-for-profit public sector enterprise
Parent Body: Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology
Purpose: Supports and strengthens emerging biotech enterprises and entrepreneurs.
Provides funding, mentorship, and partnerships to promote biotech startups.
Major programs:
BIG (Biotechnology Ignition Grant)
PACE, SPARSH, BioNEST
Has played a vital role in supporting COVID-19 vaccine development and biotech innovation in India.