Question

What is the correct extended form of IBSC?

• A. International Biotechnology Science Congress
• B. International Biosafety Congress
• C. Institutional Biosafety Committee
• D. Industrial Biotechnology Science Consortium

Hint:

The IBSC is the local, first-tier regulatory body operating directly at the institutional level, and its approval is mandatory before any recombinant DNA work can begin.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Biosafety regulations govern research involving genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology to protect human health and the environment.
Under the Rules of 1989 of the Environment (Protection) Act in India, a multi-tier regulatory framework is established to oversee biotechnology research.
The first level of this oversight at individual research organizations is represented by a dedicated committee.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The acronym IBSC stands for the Institutional Biosafety Committee.
Every institution in India engaged in research, development, or production involving recombinant DNA molecules, GMOs, or hazardous microorganisms is legally required to constitute an IBSC.
The committee is composed of the head of the institution, geneticists, medical officers, biosafety officers, and an external nominee from the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
The primary responsibilities of the IBSC are to:
- Review and approve low-risk genetic engineering experiments.
- Ensure the institution follows national biosafety guidelines.
- Assess the containment facilities and safety measures of the laboratories.
- Recommend high-risk experiments to the Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGP) for clearance.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct extended form of IBSC is the Institutional Biosafety Committee.
This corresponds to Option (C).