On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the successful completion of the Genome India Project (GIP). Speaking at an event celebrating the project's achievement, he called it a significant milestone in the nation's biotechnology sector. He also extended his best wishes to everyone involved in the project.
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"Today India has taken a historic step in the world of research. Five years ago the Genome India Project was approved. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, our scientists have completed the project. I am very happy that more than 20 research organisations have played a very important role in the research. Now the data of the project is available in the Indian Biological Data Center. This project will prove to be a big milestone in the Department of Biotechnology Research"
"Today the world is looking towards India for solutions to various global problems...In the past 10 years, special attention has been given to research and innovation in the nation...Today the youth is carrying out various experiments in the Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL)...The central government has launched the 'One Nation One Subscription' (ONOS) initiative..."
What is the Genome India Project?
The Genome India Project is a government-supported initiative aimed at sequencing the genomes of 10,000 Indian individuals to establish a reference genome for the nation's population.
How will GIP work?
Genome sequencing will unveil the hidden potential of the microbial world, making it accessible to the wider community. By analyzing sequencing data, we can identify genome-encoded traits, including critical enzymes, antimicrobial resistance, bioactive compounds, and more. Advancements in this field will enhance environmental protection and management, drive agricultural progress, and improve human health.
This initiative aims to release a fully annotated bacteriological genome, isolated within the country, for free public access. Accompanied by detailed graphical summaries, infographics, and genome assembly/annotation information, these resources will illustrate the scientific and industrial applications of these microbes. As a result, microbial genomics data will become more accessible to the public and scientific researchers, fostering discussions and innovations that benefit both the community and the ecosystem.
Key highlights
Genome sequencing of 10,000 individuals: The project successfully sequenced the genomes of 10,074 samples, representing 99 different ethnic groups.
Establishment of a genetic database: The data is securely housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre and will act as a valuable resource for future research.
Genetic insights for public health: The study identified unique genetic variations, some of which have clinical relevance, advancing the potential for precision medicine.
Sample collection achievements: More than 19,000 blood samples were collected, surpassing the original target, and are now preserved in the GenomeIndia Biobank for future studies.
Phase 1 analysis: Comprehensive quality checks and joint genotyping of 5,750 samples have uncovered rare genetic variations specific to Indian populations.
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