What is GenomeIndia?

GenomeIndia is a pioneering scientific project funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India. The project marks a landmark collaboration of 20 academic and research institutions to drive a genomics-based health revolution for India.

The primary objective of GenomeIndia is to build a comprehensive catalogue of genetic variations that reflect the unique diversity of the Indian population.

The GenomeIndia project has accomplished the following goals with which it was started.

  • A total of 20,000 samples have been collected from 83 diverse populations, cutting across the length and breadth of India, leading to the establishment of a robust biobank for future research purposes.
  • Whole genome sequencing has been completed for 10,000 samples towards creating a comprehensive catalog of India’s unique genetic diversity. This will lead to a representative reference genome for the Indian population,
  • Whole genome sequencing data for 10,000 individuals have been archived at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC). Access to this data will be available through the FeED protocol and governed by the BIOTECH-PRIDE guidelines.

The analysis of the sequencing data will provide a pathway towards affordable genomics-based diagnostic tools and precision medicine tailored to Indian population. GenomeIndia data will serve as a critical national resource for advancing public health in India and marks a significant stride toward building a healthier nation.

Who is involved?

The working consortium is represented by 20 national institutes across the country.

About 1 in 1000 positions differ between any two individuals on average, resulting in diverse genetic codes. These genetic variations among individuals affect our disease risks, and also determine a person’s responses to drugs. Understanding these genetic nuances is key to deciphering people’s predispositions to certain diseases and designing effective treatments for these. A reference set of genetic variants highlighting uniqueness of the Indian population will lead to a better understanding of the nature of diseases. It will open doors to specific interventions essential for diverseethnic groups, thereby paving the way for more targeted and effective healthcare solutions.

The instruction manual for our life, the human genome, is made up of DNA, represented by four letters A, C, G, and T. This genetic script, making up the human genome, extends across a staggering three billion such letters. Housed within the cells of our body, our genomes manifest as 23 pairs of chromosomes. In the intricate phenomenon of heredity, we inherit our genomes from our parents. Half our DNA is from our mothers, and half is from our fathers. This genetic inheritance orchestrates the very essence of our being.

  •   Create a Comprehensive Reference for Indian Genomic Diversity: Sequence the whole genome of 10,000 individuals from 83 diverse Indian populations, representing the genetic richness of the nation.
  •   Establish a Robust Biobank for Future Research: Collect and store 20,000 blood samples to enable cutting-edge biological research and advancements.
  •   Enable Open Access to Genomic Data: Provide publicly accessible genomic datasets through the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), fostering global research collaborations and innovation.
  •   Develop Affordable Genetic Tools for Diagnostics: Conceptualize genome-wide and disease-specific SNP array to support low-cost diagnostic solutions and research initiatives in India.
  •   Pave the Way for Precision Medicine in India: Take the first steps toward personalized healthcare, tailored to India’s unique genetic makeup.
  •   Inspire the Next Generation of Genomic Innovators: Encourage young Indian minds and researchers to delve into genomics, driving advancements in health and medicine for the nation.
  •   Sequencing Centres: 4
  •   Sample Collection Centres: 13
  •   Method Development Centres: 7
  •   PIs and Co-PIs: 44
  •   Total scientific and technical staff: 181
  •   No. of individuals contacted: 23805
  •   Number of samples collected: 20195
  •   Number of samples in biobank: 20195
  •   Number of Populations: 83
  •   Number of GWAS: 13242
  •   Number of WGS: 10074
  •   No. of samples for joint calling: 9871
  •   Production of a flagship manuscript from the GenomeIndia Consortium for worldwide dissemination of the research findings.
  •   Enabling sharing of data archived at IBDC (Indian Biological Data Centre) with interested research community for academic/ research purposes.
  •   Design of genome-wide and disease-specific SNP array for low-cost diagnostics and research activities.
  •   Undertake a multitude of scientific investigations through cutting edge research projects, leveraging the dataset of genetic variations..
  •   Take the first steps toward personalized healthcare tailored to India’s unique genetic makeup.
  •   Plan for the next frontier of GenomeIndia: provide a comprehensive coverage for all linguistic/ ethnic groups; varied healthcare settings and diseases; tribal, rural, and under-represented populations; and coverage for all states and union territories. Undertake longitudinal studies.