A Science Advisory Committee to the Cabinet (SACC) was re-constituted in March, 1981; Member (Science) in the Planning Commission is Chairman of SACC, to ensure appropriate linkages with the Planning
SACC recommended for a National Biotechnology Board (NBTB), which was established in 1982 as an inter-ministerial coordinating agency, to accelerate the pace of development in the frontier and emerging areas of biotechnology. This area was seen as of great relevance for agriculture, medicine and industry.