Milestone: Genome data of 10,000 Indians available for research, says PM Modi
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday unveiled the genome sequencing data of 10,000 Indian nationals, marking a major milestone in biotechnology research.
The Genome India Data, that represents the genetic diversity in the country, will be available to researchers at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) through “managed access”.
"I am confident this will be a milestone in the field of biotechnology research," Modi said in a video-recorded statement played out at the Genomics Data Conclave organised by the Department of Biotechnology here, news agency PTI reported.
Modi said more than 20 renowned research institutions like IITs, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and Biotechnology Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC) have played an important role in this research.
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The prime minister said this national database encapsulated the extraordinary genetic landscape of the country and promised to serve as an invaluable scientific resource.
"It will facilitate advancements in the treatment of genetic and infectious diseases, foster the development of new medications and precision medical techniques, and enable research into the lifestyles and habits of diverse communities," Modi said.
Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh, Principal Scientific Adviser Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General and Secretary, Department of Health Research Rajiv Bahl, and Secretary Department of Biotechnology Rajesh S Gokhale were present on the occasion.
Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that in a momentous step towards advancing healthcare and promoting traditional medicine Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone (virtually) of Central Ayurveda Research Institute in Rohini, and termed it as the ''Ayurveda's - next big leap''. The ceremony was attended by Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent charge), Ministry of Ayush and other dignitaries.
