BSc Biochemistry Full Overview

BSc Biochemistry: Course Details, Colleges, Fees, Syllabus, and Career Opportunities in India

BSc Biochemistry is an emerging 3-year UG programme offering jobs in pharma, healthcare and research sectors. Find an in-depth overview of the course here, from top colleges to top job roles.

A BSc Biochemistry degree is a popular choice for Indian students, given the increasing demand for skilled biochemists. This three-year undergraduate program explores the chemical processes within living organisms, blending biology and chemistry to understand life at a molecular level. To be eligible, you’ll need a 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology, and at least 50% aggregate. Government college fees range from INR 2,000 to INR 15,000 annually. The bsc Biochemistry course covers cell biology, genetics, metabolism, and enzymology, preparing you for careers in research, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. Graduates can find opportunities in biotechnology, clinical research, and environmental monitoring. This article provides an overview of the BSc Biochemistry course in India, including top government colleges, fees, syllabus, and career opportunities.

BSc Biochemistry: An Overview of the Course in India

BSc Biochemistry is a three-year undergraduate program focused on the chemical processes within living organisms. It combines biology and chemistry to understand the molecular basis of life, covering topics like cell biology, genetics, metabolism, and enzymology, preparing students for careers in research, healthcare, and the pharmaceutical industry. The course is typically three years long, divided into six semesters. Here is a quick glance at the course:

Aspect Details
Full Form Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry
Course Level Undergraduate (UG)
Duration 3 years (divided into 6 semesters)
Focus Chemical processes within living organisms; integrates Biology and Chemistry to understand the molecular basis of life
Key Topics Covered Cell biology, Genetics, Metabolism, Enzymology, Biomolecules, Molecular Biology, and related areas
Eligibility 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology; minimum 50% aggregate marks (may vary by college; some accept PCMB)
Admission Process Primarily merit-based; some colleges require entrance exams like CUET or others
Average Fees INR 10,000 – 60,000 per year (government colleges: lower end; private: higher; total course ~INR 30,000 – 2-6 lakhs depending on institution)
Career Preparation Prepares for roles in research, healthcare, pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, clinical labs, and related fields
Typical Career Paths Research Scientist, Lab Technician, Biochemist, Pharmaceutical roles, Healthcare diagnostics, further studies (MSc/PhD)

BSc Biochemistry Eligibility Criteria in India: Detailed Requirements

To be eligible for a BSc Biochemistry program in India, you must have completed 10+2 or an equivalent examination with at least 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology. Some colleges may also require CUET or NEET scores. The table below outlines the detailed eligibility criteria for BSc Biochemistry admission in Indian colleges. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of the colleges you’re interested in, as they may vary.

Aspect Details
Qualification 10+2 or Equivalent (Science stream)
Required Subjects Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology (PCB); PCMB accepted in some cases
Minimum Aggregate 50% (General); 45% (SC/ST/OBC/PwD) – relaxations apply
Entrance Exams CUET UG (primary); NEET (select colleges); Merit-based in many cases
Age Restrictions None (or minimum 17 years in rare cases)

BSc Biochemistry Admission Process in India: A Step-by-Step Guide

The admission process for BSc Biochemistry in India involves several steps.

  1. Complete 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology, securing at least 50% aggregate marks.
  2. Check the specific eligibility criteria of the colleges you’re interested in, including any entrance exam requirements.
  3. If required, apply for entrance exams like CUET or NEET and prepare thoroughly.
  4. Fill out the application forms for your chosen colleges, ensuring accuracy and attaching all required documents.
  5. Attend counseling or interviews, if applicable, and be prepared to discuss your academic background, interests, and career goals.
  6. Check the merit lists published by the colleges and accept the admission offer if selected.
  7. Pay the admission fees to secure your seat (ranging from INR 2,000 to INR 60,000 per year, depending on the college).
  8. Verify your documents, including mark sheets, certificates, and identification proof, to ensure they meet the college’s requirements.
  9. Participate in any additional selection processes, such as group discussions or written tests, as specified by the college.
  10. Finalize your admission by completing any remaining formalities, such as submitting a medical certificate or proof of address.

After completing these steps, you can begin your BSc Biochemistry program. Stay updated with admission schedules and deadlines. Research college infrastructure, faculty, and placement records to make an informed decision.

Entrance Exams for BSc Biochemistry in India: Exam Details and Eligibility

Admission to BSc Biochemistry programs in India often involves entrance exams that assess your knowledge in biochemistry and related sciences. These exams are conducted by national, state, or university-level authorities and have specific eligibility criteria, exam modes, and syllabi. The table below provides an overview of prominent entrance exams for BSc Biochemistry in India:

Exam Name Conducting Body Exam Type Exam Mode Eligibility Criteria
CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test – Undergraduate) National Testing Agency (NTA) National Level Computer Based Test (CBT) 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology/Biochemistry (relevant subjects); minimum 50% aggregate (relaxations for reserved categories); no upper age limit. Domain subjects typically include Biology/Biological Studies/Biotechnology/Biochemistry + Chemistry (combinations vary by university).
University-Specific Entrance Tests (e.g., Christ University Entrance Test, Amity JEE, etc.) Respective Private/Deemed Universities (e.g., Christ University, Amity, etc.) University Level Online/Offline (varies) 10+2 with PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology); minimum 50% aggregate; may include interview or additional rounds.
ICAR AIEEA UG (for related programs like BSc in Biochemistry/Biotech at agricultural universities) National Testing Agency (NTA) via CUET integration in recent years National Level Computer Based Test (CBT) 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Agriculture; minimum 50% aggregate; relevant for biochemistry in agri-biotech contexts.
State-Level Exams (e.g., KCET, MHT CET for allied sciences in some states) State Boards/Universities (e.g., Karnataka Examinations Authority) State Level Offline/Online (varies) 10+2 with PCB; state domicile may apply; used in select states for BSc programs.

Top Government Colleges for BSc Biochemistry in India

The table below provides an overview of top government colleges in India offering BSc Biochemistry, including their fees and admission mode. These colleges are known for their academic quality and research opportunities. Admission is primarily merit-based, with some colleges considering CUET or NEET scores. These colleges offer a comprehensive biochemistry curriculum, focusing on both theoretical and practical aspects.

College Name City Approximate Annual Fees (INR) Admission Mode
Kirori Mal College (University of Delhi) New Delhi 10,000 – 20,000 CUET UG + Merit/Counseling
Daulat Ram College (University of Delhi) New Delhi 10,000 – 25,000 CUET UG + Merit
Deshbandhu College (University of Delhi) New Delhi 8,000 – 15,000 CUET UG + Merit
Sri Venkateswara College (University of Delhi) New Delhi 12,000 – 25,000 CUET UG + Merit
Shivaji College (University of Delhi) New Delhi 8,000 – 20,000 CUET UG + Merit
Shaheed Rajguru College of Applied Sciences for Women (University of Delhi) New Delhi 10,000 – 22,000 CUET UG + Merit
Presidency University (formerly Presidency College) Kolkata 2,000 – 10,000 Merit-based / PUBDET or equivalent
Madras Christian College (MCC, aided stream) Chennai 15,000 – 30,000 Merit-based (Class 12 marks)
Fergusson College Pune 5,000 – 15,000 Merit-based (Class 12) / Online Application
Government Arts College for Women, Krishnagiri (or similar Tamil Nadu govt affiliates) Krishnagiri / Various TN 2,000 – 15,000 Merit-based / State counseling

Top Private Colleges for BSc Biochemistry in India

The table below provides an overview of top private colleges in India offering BSc Biochemistry, including their fees, admission mode, and accepted entrance exams. These colleges are known for their academic quality, research opportunities, and placement records.

College Name / University City Approximate Annual Fees (INR) Admission Mode
St. Joseph’s University (SJU) Bangalore 1,00,000 – 1,50,000 Merit-based / University Entrance / CUET UG
Christ University Bangalore 80,000 – 1,50,000 Christ University Entrance Test / Merit + Interview
Loyola College (autonomous, aided/private stream) Chennai 25,000 – 50,000 Merit-based (Class 12) / Loyola Entrance (if required)
Amity University Noida / Various campuses 80,000 – 1,50,000 Amity Entrance / Merit / CUET UG
Parul University Vadodara 50,000 – 1,00,000 Merit-based / Parul Entrance / CUET
Galgotias University Greater Noida 50,000 – 1,00,000 Merit-based / Galgotias Admission Test / CUET UG
Integral University Lucknow 40,000 – 80,000 IUET / Merit
JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research Mysore 50,000 – 1,20,000 Merit-based / University Entrance
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology Chennai 80,000 – 1,50,000 Sathyabama Entrance / Merit
Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) Mangalore 60,000 – 1,20,000 Merit-based / University Test
Dayananda Sagar University Bangalore 80,000 – 1,40,000 Merit-based / DSAT / CUET UG
Chandigarh University Mohali 60,000 – 1,20,000 CUCET (Chandigarh University Entrance) / Merit
Jain University Bangalore 70,000 – 1,30,000 JET (Jain Entrance Test) / Merit / CUET UG
SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai 80,000 – 1,50,000 SRMJEEE / Merit / CUET UG

BSc Biochemistry Syllabus: Year-wise Breakdown

The BSc Biochemistry course in Indian universities is a three-year program exploring chemical processes within living organisms. The syllabus provides a comprehensive understanding of biomolecules, cell biology, enzymology, metabolism, genetics, and molecular biology. The course is structured into six semesters, each focusing on specific core and elective subjects. Core subjects include Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, and Molecular Biology. Elective subjects allow you to explore related fields such as immunology, biostatistics, and research methodology. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the year-wise syllabus for BSc Biochemistry in Indian universities.

Year Semester Core Subjects Elective Subjects
1st 1st Biomolecules, Cell Biology Basic Mathematics
1st 2nd Enzymology, Bioenergetics Introduction to Computer Science
2nd 3rd Metabolism, Genetics Immunology
2nd 4th Molecular Biology, Plant Biochemistry Microbiology
3rd 5th Animal Biochemistry, Clinical Biochemistry Biostatistics
3rd 6th Genetic Engineering, Biotechnology Research Methodology

Core Subjects in BSc Biochemistry

Here is a detailed overview of core subjects taught in BSc Biochemistry in India. Take a look at these subjects along with their descriptions:

Subject Name One-Liner Description
Biomolecules Explores the structure, properties, and functions of key building blocks like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, and vitamins.
Cell Biology Covers cell structure, organelles, membrane dynamics, cell signaling, and basic cellular processes essential for life.
Enzymes (Enzymology) Studies enzyme classification, kinetics, mechanisms of action, regulation, and their role as biological catalysts.
Metabolism of Carbohydrates Details pathways like glycolysis, TCA cycle, gluconeogenesis, glycogen metabolism, and their regulation.
Metabolism of Lipids Examines fatty acid synthesis/degradation, ketone bodies, cholesterol metabolism, and lipid-related disorders.
Metabolism of Amino Acids and Nucleotides Focuses on breakdown/synthesis of amino acids, urea cycle, purine/pyrimidine pathways, and nucleotide metabolism.
Bioenergetics and Membrane Biology Explains energy production via oxidative phosphorylation, electron transport chain, bioenergetics, and membrane structure/function.
Molecular Biology Covers DNA replication, transcription, translation, gene regulation, and molecular mechanisms of gene expression.
Human Physiology Integrates biochemical processes with organ systems, hormones, nutrition, and physiological homeostasis.
Immunology Introduces immune system components, antigens/antibodies, immune responses, and basic immunopathology.
Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Explores recombinant DNA technology, cloning, PCR, CRISPR, and applications in biotech and medicine.
Biochemical Techniques Provides hands-on knowledge of lab tools like chromatography, electrophoresis, spectroscopy, and centrifugation for biomolecule analysis.
Clinical Biochemistry Applies biochemistry to disease diagnosis, clinical tests, metabolic disorders, and therapeutic monitoring.

BSc Biochemistry Fee Structure: Government vs Private Colleges in India – A Comparison

BSc Biochemistry fees in India differ significantly between government/public (including aided and central/state university-affiliated) and private/deemed colleges. Government institutions benefit from subsidies, making them highly affordable, while private ones invest in modern facilities, labs, faculty, and placements, leading to higher costs. Here is a side-by-side comparison:

Fee Component Government / Public Colleges (Annual, INR) Private / Deemed Universities (Annual, INR)
Tuition Fees 2,000 – 25,000 50,000 – 1,50,000
Lab / Practical / Development Fees 1,000 – 10,000 10,000 – 50,000
Hostel Accommodation Fees 10,000 – 60,000 40,000 – 1,50,000
Mess / Food Charges 15,000 – 40,000 30,000 – 80,000
Examination / University Fees 2,000 – 10,000 5,000 – 20,000
Total Estimated Annual Cost (without hostel/mess) 5,000 – 40,000 60,000 – 2,00,000+
Total Estimated Annual Cost (with hostel + mess) 30,000 – 1,20,000 1,20,000 – 3,50,000+

Top BSc Biochemistry Colleges Abroad

Pursuing a BSc Chemistry abroad provides access to cutting-edge research, advanced laboratories, and global career opportunities in fields such as pharmaceuticals, materials science, environmental chemistry, and academia. Programs are typically 3-4 years long, with a mix of theory, lab work, and often research projects. The table below lists prominent, highly ranked universities for undergraduate chemistry:

University Name Country Approximate Annual Tuition Fees
Harvard University USA $55,000 – $60,000
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) USA $58,000 – $62,000
Stanford University USA $58,000 – $62,000
University of Cambridge UK £25,000 – £40,000 (~$32,000 – $52,000)
University of Oxford UK £35,000 – £45,000 (~$45,000 – $58,000)
ETH Zurich Switzerland CHF 1,500 – 2,000 (~$1,700 – $2,300; low for all)
EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) Switzerland CHF 1,500 – 2,000 (~$1,700 – $2,300)
Imperial College London UK £35,000 – £40,000 (~$45,000 – $52,000)
National University of Singapore (NUS) Singapore SGD 30,000 – 40,000 (~$22,000 – $30,000)
University of Toronto Canada CAD 60,000 – 65,000 (~$44,000 – $48,000)

Scope for Higher Studies After BSc in Biochemistry

After completing a BSc in Biochemistry, pursuing higher studies is one of the most popular and rewarding paths in India. It significantly enhances career prospects, opens doors to advanced research and specialized roles. Here are some common pathways after completing BSc Biochemistry:

  • MSc Biochemistry – This is the most direct and popular postgraduate choice, deepening knowledge in advanced topics like molecular biology, enzymology, metabolism, and clinical applications. It prepares you for research roles, lab positions in pharma/biotech, or PhD pathways. Entrance conducted via CUET PG or IIT JAM with top institutes including Delhi University, JNU, and BHU.
  • MSc Biotechnology – A highly trending interdisciplinary option that builds on biochemistry foundations with genetic engineering, bioprocessing, and industrial applications. It opens doors to booming sectors like biotech firms, vaccine development, and R&D. Entrances include CUET PG, GAT-B, or IIT JAM.
  • MSc Medical Biochemistry / Clinical Biochemistry – Focuses on clinical diagnostics, disease biomarkers, hospital lab techniques, and therapeutic monitoring—perfect for healthcare settings. Leads to roles as clinical biochemists in hospitals or diagnostics labs with good job stability. Admissions via CUET PG or university tests with top options being AIIMS, PGIMER, or JIPMER.

Career Prospects After BSc In Biochemistry

A BSc in Biochemistry equips graduates with strong foundational knowledge in molecular biology, enzymology, metabolism, and lab techniques, opening doors to entry-level roles in India’s growing biotech, pharmaceutical, healthcare, and research sectors. Here is a quick overview of popular job roles and salary ranges:

Sector Job Role Job Description Fresher Salary Range (INR per annum)
Pharmaceuticals Research Assistant / Junior Scientist Assist in drug development, compound testing, data analysis, and lab experiments for new medications. 4–8 LPA
Healthcare / Diagnostics Lab Technician / Clinical Lab Assistant Conduct biochemical tests on samples, operate equipment, maintain records for disease diagnosis in hospitals/labs. 2.5–5 LPA
Biotechnology Biotechnologist / Research Associate Work on genetic engineering, fermentation, or product development in biotech firms (e.g., vaccines, enzymes). 4–7 LPA
Clinical Research Clinical Research Associate (entry-level) Support clinical trials, collect data, ensure protocol compliance, and coordinate with investigators. 3–6 LPA
Quality Control / Assurance Quality Control Analyst / QC Executive Test products for purity, safety, and compliance in pharma/food/cosmetics industries; report deviations. 3–6 LPA
Research & Academia Research Fellow / Lab Technician Support ongoing research projects, handle experiments, and prepare reports in labs/universities. 3–6 LPA
Forensic Science Forensic Lab Assistant Analyze biological evidence (DNA, fluids) for criminal investigations in government labs. 4–7 LPA

Top Recruiters in Biochemistry in India

After a BSc in Biochemistry, graduates are recruited by leading companies in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare/diagnostics, clinical research, and government/research labs. These organizations hire for roles like lab technicians, research assistants, quality control analysts, and clinical associates. Top recruiters often participate in campus placements or post jobs on platforms. Take a quick look below:

Job Role Top 3 Recruiters
Research Assistant / Junior Scientist Biocon, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
Lab Technician / Clinical Lab Assistant SRL Diagnostics, Thyrocare, Apollo Hospitals
Biotechnologist / Research Associate Serum Institute of India, Syngene International, Bharat Biotech
Quality Control / Assurance Analyst Cipla, Sun Pharmaceuticals, Lupin
Clinical Research Associate (entry-level) IQVIA, Parexel, Thermo Fisher Scientific
Forensic Lab Assistant / Government Lab Roles ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research), CSIR Labs, Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL)

Popular Books for BSc Biochemistry Students

Here is a list of some of the most popular study/reading material for BSc Biochemistry course:

Book Name Author(s)
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry David L. Nelson & Michael M. Cox
Biochemistry Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto Jr., & Lubert Stryer
Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the Molecular Level Donald Voet, Judith G. Voet, & Charlotte W. Pratt
Harper’s Illustrated Biochemistry Victor W. Rodwell, David A. Bender, Kathleen M. Botham, Peter J. Kennelly, & P. Anthony Weil
Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Biochemistry Denise R. Ferrier

Preparation Tips for BSc Biochemistry Aspirants

Students preparing to pursue BSc Biochemistry should plan in advance. Here are a few practical tips that will help them take right steps at the right time and ace their admissions:

  • Master Class 12 PCB Basics:  Focus deeply on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. Be sure to revise NCERT textbooks thoroughly as they form the core of entrance exams like CUET UG.
  • Practice Entrance Exam Patterns : Solve previous years’ CUET UG papers and mock tests regularly. Time yourself to improve speed and accuracy for the computer-based format.
  • Strengthen Conceptual Understanding : Don’t just memorize—understand processes like glycolysis, enzyme kinetics, and protein structure. Use diagrams and flowcharts to visualize metabolic pathways and reactions.
  • Build Lab & Practical Skills Early: Familiarize yourself with basic lab techniques through school practicals or YouTube demos. This helps during BSc lab sessions and interviews.
  • Stay Updated & Plan Colleges Regularly check CUET NTA website for syllabus, dates, and participating universities. Shortlist colleges (DU, BHU, etc.) based on cut-offs, fees, and biochemistry reputation.

BSc Biochemistry vs BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

In India, both BSc Biochemistry and BSc (Hons) Biochemistry are popular 3-year undergraduate programs. The key difference lies in depth and focus: BSc (general/program) provides broader exposure, while BSc (Hons) emphasizes specialization, advanced topics, and research in biochemistry. Here’s a clear tabular comparison based on standard offerings in Indian universities:

Aspect BSc Biochemistry (General/Program) BSc (Hons) Biochemistry
Full Name Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biochemistry
Duration 3 years (6 semesters) 3 years (6 semesters); some 4 years with research under NEP
Focus & Depth Broad overview of biochemistry + related sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry basics); less intensive on one subject In-depth, specialized study of biochemistry; advanced topics, research methodology, and detailed exploration of core areas
Curriculum Style Covers fundamentals across multiple subjects; more general and balanced More rigorous, research-oriented; includes extra papers, projects, dissertations, and advanced electives in biochemistry
Eligibility 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology/Biotechnology; min. 50% aggregate (relaxations apply) Same as general BSc; often slightly higher cut-offs in competitive colleges (e.g., DU requires strong CUET scores)
Admission Process Merit-based or CUET UG (common now); easier entry in many colleges Primarily CUET UG in central universities; more competitive due to limited seats and prestige
Syllabus Emphasis Core subjects like biomolecules, metabolism, enzymology + general science electives Same cores but deeper coverage; more practicals, research projects, advanced topics (e.g., molecular biology, clinical biochemistry)
Research/Project Component Basic lab work; limited or optional projects Mandatory advanced labs, research projects, and often a dissertation (especially in 4-year Hons)
Suitability Good for broad knowledge, quick entry to jobs, or general postgraduate options Ideal for research careers, PhD aspirations, or specialized roles in biotech/pharma
Career & Higher Studies Edge Solid entry-level jobs (lab technician, QC analyst); good for MSc in related fields Better preparation for advanced MSc/PhD, research roles, higher salaries, and competitive exams (e.g., CSIR-NET, GATE)
Top Colleges (Examples) Some state universities, private colleges offering general BSc Delhi University affiliates (e.g., Daulat Ram, Kirori Mal, Sri Venkateswara), Presidency University, Jain University, IGNOU (Hons program)
Fees (Approx. Annual) Lower in government colleges (INR 5,000–30,000) Similar or slightly higher in top institutions due to advanced facilities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the eligibility criteria for BSc Biochemistry in India?

To be eligible for BSc Biochemistry in India, you need a 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Biotechnology, and a minimum of 50% aggregate. Some colleges accept CUET or NEET scores. There are no age restrictions.

Q2. What is the fee structure for government and private colleges offering BSc Biochemistry in India?

Government colleges offering BSc Biochemistry in India typically charge INR 2,000–25,000 per year. Private colleges range from INR 50,000–1,50,000 annually, depending on the institution and facilities.

Q3. What are the core subjects covered in the first year of BSc Biochemistry?

The first year of BSc Biochemistry covers Biomolecules and Cell Biology in the first semester, and Enzymology and Bioenergetics in the second semester. Elective subjects like Basic Mathematics and Introduction to Computer Science are also offered.

Q4. What are the entrance exams accepted for BSc Biochemistry admission in India?

The primary entrance exam for BSc Biochemistry admission in India is CUET UG. Some colleges accept NEET or conduct university-specific tests; many use merit-based (Class 12 marks) admission.

Q5. What is the duration of the BSc Biochemistry program in India?

The BSc Biochemistry program in India is a three-year undergraduate program exploring the chemical processes within living organisms, combining biology and chemistry to understand the molecular basis of life.

Q6. What is BSc Biochemistry salary in India?

BSc Biochemistry freshers in India earn INR 3–6 LPA on average. With 2–5 years of experience or MSc, salaries rise to INR 6–12 LPA or higher in top firms.

Aayush Kukreja
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Aayush is a writer and content strategist who turns personal stories into brand narratives. With an experience spanning diverse industries, rely on his writing for simplifying complex subjects & get in-depth insights - always with sharp wit.

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