The setting up of a separate Department of Biotechnology in 2006 gave a new impetus to the development of the field of traditional modern biotechnology in West Bengal. In just a couple of years of its existence, the department has promoted and accelerated the pace of development of biotechnology in the State. Through several R&D projects, demonstrations and creation of infrastructural facilities a palpable impact on the awareness about this field has been seen. The department has made significant achievements in the growth and application of biotechnology in the broad areas of agriculture, health care, animal sciences, environment, and industry.         

The department has been interacting with several leading research institutes of repute. The proven technologies at the laboratory level are being scaled up and demonstrated in field. It has been trying to involve Government, NGOs and Panchayat agencies to create awareness about the benefits of the use of biotechnology in various fields so as to achieve the overall societal development and enhance the quality of life. It has been awarding grants to various researchers and to propagate large-scale researches, to various institutions of repute.