Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a video address, marked the completion of the Genome India Project, describing it as a monumental achievement in biotechnology research. The project, initiated five years ago and carried out despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, involved over 20 premier institutions, including IISc, IITs, CSIR, and DBT-BRIC. It has successfully sequenced the genomes of 10,000 Indians, creating a diverse genetic database now housed at the Indian Biological Data Center.
PM Modi highlighted the project’s potential to revolutionize India’s biotechnology landscape. He emphasized that the genetic data would aid researchers in understanding India’s unique genetic diversity and assist policymakers in tackling challenges like genetic diseases. Sickle cell anemia, a prevalent issue among tribal communities, was cited as an example of how this knowledge could lead to targeted treatments and solutions.
The Prime Minister underscored the broader implications of the Genome India Project, particularly in addressing lesser-known genetic diseases and enhancing public health. He pointed out India’s vast and diverse genetic makeup, which necessitates region-specific research for effective healthcare solutions.
In his address, Modi also discussed India’s growing bioeconomy, which has surged from $10 billion in 2014 to over $150 billion today. He attributed this growth to initiatives such as the recently launched Bio E3 Policy, aimed at positioning India as a global leader in biotechnology. The policy focuses on optimizing natural resources, promoting bio-based products, and fostering innovation to drive sustainable development and employment.
Highlighting India’s evolution as a global pharmaceutical hub, the Prime Minister noted the country’s strides in healthcare, including affordable medicines through Jan Aushadhi Kendras and robust medical infrastructure. He emphasized that the Genome India Project would further bolster India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare ecosystem, enhancing drug development and manufacturing capabilities.
Modi also shed light on initiatives supporting research and innovation, such as the establishment of over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and hundreds of Atal Incubation Centers. He mentioned the PM Research Fellowship Scheme and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, which focus on multidisciplinary and international research. The government’s “One Nation One Subscription” initiative, providing cost-free access to global research journals, was hailed as a transformative step toward making India a knowledge powerhouse.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the Genome India Project would cement India’s position as a leader in genetic research and innovation. He extended his best wishes to all stakeholders, reaffirming his vision of India as a beacon of solutions for global challenges.