The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), introduces the One Day One Genome initiative to utilize the microbial potential of India and to highlight the roles of microorganisms in agriculture, environment and human health.
- It was launched on the 1st foundation day of BRIC held in National Institute of Immunology (NII), New Delhi on 9th November 2024 by Amitabh Kant.
- This initiative is coordinated by BRIC and the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG).
- This initiative aims to release a fully elucidate bacteriological genome isolated in the country freely available to the public, along with detailed summaries, infographics and genome data.
- Moreover, this will increase access to microbial genomics, foster scientific innovation and benefit society as a whole.
- Microbial Importance
- Microbes are crucial for biogeochemical cycles, soil fertility, waste degradation and methane production.
- In agriculture, they assist with nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, pest control and plant stress responses.
- In humans, microbes support digestion, immunity and mental health.
- Genome
- A genome is the complete set of DNA instructions in a cell. In humans, it includes 23 pairs of chromosomes in the nucleus and a small chromosome in the mitochondria.
- The genome contains all the information required for an individual to grow, develop and function.