Context:
Recently, the Prime Minister launched the genome sequencing data of over 10,000 Indians at the Genome India Data Conclave, held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.
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At the Conclave, the ‘Framework for Exchange of Data Protocols (FeED)’ and the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) Portals were also launched which will make the whole genome samples accessible to researchers across India and the globe.
This Genome India’ database of 10,000 Indians sourced from 99 different ethnic groups will serve as a reference for future disease research and will contribute to advancements in personalized healthcare and medicine.
- The database is housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), in Faridabad, Haryana.
The project was first completed in February 2024 and India was declared to be the “world’s largest genetic lab.”
About Genome India Project:
- GenomeIndia is a national project funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, launched in January 2020.
- Its goal is to sequence 10,000 genomes from healthy people across India.
- The primary aim of the Project is to create a detailed catalogue of genetic variations within India’s population, capturing its unique diversity.
- Genome sequencing of 99 different ethnic groups was done by over 20 Indian institutions led by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru.
- It aims to build a reference genome that reflects the genetic makeup of the Indian people, offering a deeper understanding of diversity.
- It has the potential to transform healthcare, supporting both researchers and doctors and leading to more precise treatments.
- The project is poised to make India a global hub for genomic research, positioning the country at the forefront of the next scientific and medical revolution.
Significance of the Project
- The initiative positions India as a leader in genomics, enabling the development of disease-specific genetic chips (Precision medicine) for low-cost diagnostics and research activities.
- The data will serve as a foundation for cutting-edge research and will catalyze innovations in areas such as mRNA-based vaccines, protein manufacturing, and genetic disorder treatments.
India’s Bioeconomy
- India’s bioeconomy has grown impressively, from $10 billion in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024, with expectations to reach $300 billion by 2030.
- The new BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy 2024 is set to accelerate this growth trajectory, making substantial contributions to the ‘Make in India’ initiative by fostering the development of bio-based products with minimal carbon footprints.
- India ranks 3rd in the Asia-Pacific region and 12th globally in terms of biomanufacturing.
- India is the largest vaccine producer in the world and has the third-largest startup ecosystem.
- The number of biotech startups in India has surged from just 50 in 2014 to over 8,500 in 2023, highlighting the country’s growing leadership in biotechnology.
- Indian companies in the biotechnology sector have achieved a valuation of ₹75,000 crore over the past 10 years.