INTRODUCTION OF BIO-TECHNOLOGY AS AN ELECTIVE SUBJECT OF STUDY AT SENIOR SCHOOL LEVEL

Past few decades have witnessed an unprecedented growth of human knowledge in the field of Biological Science. This knowledge, coupled with equally significant developments in the field of technology, are likely to bring significantly changes into existing social and economic systems. The emerging field of Biotechnology is bound to further enhance the applications of Science and Technology in the service of human welfare. Besides, it is likely to occupy central position in relation to further advancements and developments which will affect very walk of life. Keeping in view the immense potential of this fast emerging area of Biotechnology in relation to career opportunities as well as academic persuits, the Central CBSE Board of Secondary Education has responded to the situation and has decided to introduce a new course on Biotechnology for senior school classes as an independent elective subject in its affiliated schools from the academic session 2002–2003. Salient Features of the Course 1. The Course is aimed to provide understanding of elementary concepts of Biotechnology and its applications in different fields. 2. The syllabus will have the components of theory, practicals and project work. 3. The course will be introduced in class XI of the academic year 2002–03 and class XII examination of March, 2004. 4. The course is being offered under the academic stream. 5. The textural material will be published by CBSE. 6. The CBSE Board will also develop Teacher Resource Material in the subject. 7. The CBSE Board will organize orientation programmes for teachers in theory as well as in practicals. 8. The course will be introduced in the beginning in about 100 schools who are willing to provide all related facilities to students and meet the requirements of the CBSE Board. School desirous of starting this course may forward their request to Director (Academic) / Education Officer (Science) by 15th April, 2002. However, final selection of schools will be made exclusively by the CBSE Board after assessing the related facilities available in the schools.