India Launches 10000 Genomes Database and IBDC Portals for Genetic Research

New Delhi: In a landmark event for India's scientific community, the GenomeIndia Project took center stage with the launch of the Indian Genomic Data Set and the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) Portals.

The initiative, unveiled at the Genome India Data Conclave held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, marks a stride in genomics and biotechnology, as India propels itself to the forefront of genetic research and innovation.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced, "India is no longer dependent on foreign genomic data. The development of our own genomic dataset, comprising 10,000 whole genome samples, is a monumental achievement that will fuel medical and scientific breakthroughs. This dataset will now be accessible globally, contributing to personalized healthcare and medicine."

The IBDC Portals are designed to facilitate seamless access to genetic information, enabling researchers worldwide to explore genetic variations and develop precise genomic tools tailored to the Indian demographic.

Dr Singh highlighted the transformative potential of the GenomeIndia Project, which leverages the diversity of India's population to enrich the understanding of genetic disorders and their treatments.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a video message, expressed his congratulations to the scientific community. He remarked, "This initiative is a testament to India's scientific prowess and its vision for the future of healthcare and biotechnology. By providing a Diverse Genetic Resource, the GenomeIndia Project strengthens India's capacity to address hereditary diseases and contributes to global scientific efforts."

The database, housed at the IBDC, contains genome sequencing data from 10,000 individuals, representing diverse Indian populations. This resource will support research in personalized medicine and other areas, including agriculture and environmental studies.

The IBDC Portals offer tools for analyzing genetic variations and creating India-specific genomic chips. The project operates under the Framework for Exchange of Data (FeED) Protocols to ensure transparent and ethical data sharing.

Dr Singh also announced future plans to sequence 10 million genomes and suggested collaborations with institutions like Tata Memorial Hospital to further enhance data enrichment.

Prime Minister Modi also emphasized the role of the GenomeIndia Project in understanding India's unique genomic patterns, enabling the development of specific solutions for challenges like sickle cell anemia.

"India’s diversity extends beyond food, language, and geography to the genetic makeup of its people. By unraveling these patterns, we can pioneer treatments for genetic disorders and contribute significantly to the global biotechnology landscape," he added.

Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the rapid growth of India's bioeconomy, which has surged from $10 billion in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024, with projections to reach $300 billion by 2030. He attributed this growth to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi and initiatives like the Bioeconomy Policy.

The GenomeIndia Project, completed with the collaboration of over 20 premier institutions like IISc, IITs, CSIR, and BRIC, sets a foundation for advancements in personalized medicine, mRNA-based vaccines, and genetic disorder treatments. "This data will empower India to lead the next generation of biotechnological innovations," noted Dr. Singh.

As a hub for genomic research, the project paves the way for India to establish itself as a knowledge and innovation hub by 2047. Through Pro-People Governance and Digital Public Infrastructure, India aims to enhance its scientific and economic contributions on a global scale.

With the launch of the Indian Genomic Data Set and IBDC Portals, India embarks on an era of scientific self-reliance, ready to revolutionize the fields of healthcare, agriculture, and environmental research.