India plans to expand its biotechnology sector fivefold over the next five years as part of an ambitious strategy outlined yesterday at BIO 2005, the world's largest biotech conference. Steps under consideration range from new financial incentives for scientific entrepreneurs to industry-friendly regulations for testing drugs on animals and people.

Kapil Sibal, India's science minister, launched the government's strategy - intended to make India as successful in the life sciences as it has been in software and information technology. It will require substantial investment by foreign companies attracted by India's skilled scientific workforce and lower costs.