Launch of Indian Genomic Data Set & IBDC Portals

Tags: Science and Technology

Why in the news?

• Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology,  announced that India is no longer dependent on foreign genomic data at the Genome India Data Conclave, held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi,

Important points:

• Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched the ‘Framework for Exchange of Data Protocols (FeED)’ and the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) Portals, making 10,000 whole genome samples accessibleto researchers across India and the globe.

• “India has developed its own genomic data set, a monumental achievement that will fuel future medical and scientific breakthroughs. 

• The entire collection of 10,000 whole genome samples, archived at IBDC, is now made available for research purposes not only within India but globally. 

• The Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) will facilitate seamless access to valuable genetic information, enabling researchers to explore genetic variations and design more accurate genomic tools. 

• The data will serve as a foundation for cutting-edge research and will catalyze innovations in areas such as mRNA-based vaccines, protein manufacturing, and genetic disorder treatments. 

• The Minister highlighted the impressive growth of India’s bioeconomy, which has surged from $10. India now ranks 12th globally in biotech and 3rd in the Asia-Pacific region. 

• The Minister also pointed out that India is the largest vaccine producer in the world and the third-largest startup ecosystem.

• The ‘GenomeIndia’ project is poised to make India a global hub for genomic research, positioning the country at the forefront of the next scientific and medical revolution.