India's Science and Technology Minister, Jitendra Singh, commended scientists for their efforts in identifying and compiling the genetic variations of various Indian populations through the sequencing of the genomes of 10,000 healthy individuals from 99 communities across the nation.
Speaking at an event in New Delhi, Singh underscored the significance of this genome sequence data, stating that it will be instrumental in crafting effective healthcare strategies for treatment and prevention. He noted that this repository of Indian genomes, stored at the Indian Biological Data Centre in Faridabad by the Department of Biotechnology, can provide insights into genetic variations specific to Indian population groups, allowing for the customization of drugs and therapies.
Singh contrasted India's initiative with those of other nations like the UK, China, and the US, which have already launched programmes to sequence at least 100,000 genomes.
Highlighting India's unique population structure comprising over 4,600 distinct groups, with many engaging in intermarriage, Singh emphasized the necessity for indigenous solutions to the nation's challenges as it emerges as a scientific leader.
Furthermore, Singh pointed out that within the Indian population, there are specific genetic variations, and a significant number of disease-causing mutations are prevalent in certain groups. Therefore, it is essential to develop research findings tailored to Indians rather than applying global research outcomes indiscriminately.