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‘One Day One Genome’ Initiative to Harness the Microbial Potential 

Last updated on May 6th, 2025 Posted on May 6, 2025 by NEXT IAS Current Affairs Team  299

Syllabus :GS 3/Science and Technology

In News

  • The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has released graphical summaries, infographics, and detailed data on 100+ bacterial genomes as part of the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative.

About 

  • The genome, or genetic material, of an organism is made up of a unique DNA or RNA sequence.
  • Each sequence is composed of chemical building blocks known as nucleotide bases. 
  • Determining the order of bases is called “genomic sequencing” or, simply, “sequencing.”

‘One Day One Genome’ initiative

  • It was launched by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) in November , 2024, to showcase India’s rich microbial diversity and its vital roles in environmental sustainability, agriculture, and human health.
    • The initiative is coordinated by BRIC-National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG), West Bengal.
  • Data is shared from 13 BRIC institutions and two autonomous bodies:
    • International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) New Delhi and Regional Centre for Biotechnology (RCB) Faridabad.
  • It aims to harness India’s microbial potential and make genome data accessible for scientific and industrial use.

Importance 

  • It emphasizes the importance of microorganisms in biogeochemical cycles, soil fertility, nutrient cycling, pest control, and human immunity and digestion.
    • Genome sequencing will uncover microbial abilities such as enzyme production, antimicrobial resistance, and bioactive compound generation, aiding environmental protection, agricultural advancement, and public health.
      • Each genome release will include infographics, annotation details, and industrial applications, making microbial science more accessible and impactful for both researchers and the general public.
Do you know?
– GenomeIndia is a landmark genomics project funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, involving 20 academic and research institutions. 
– Its main goal is to create a comprehensive catalogue of genetic variations representing India’s diverse population. 
– So far, the project has collected 20,000 samples from 83 populations across India and completed whole genome sequencing for 10,000 of them. 
– This data is archived at the Indian Biological Data Centre and will be accessible under BIOTECH-PRIDE guidelines via the FeED protocol. 
1. The findings aim to enable affordable, genomics-based diagnostics and precision medicine tailored to the Indian population, supporting national public health initiatives.

Source :IE

 
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