Daily Current Affairs : 19-November-2024
The “One Day One Genome” initiative is an exciting new project launched by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) to highlight India’s rich microbial diversity. This initiative aims to advance scientific research in areas like environmental management, agriculture, and human health.
Launch and Background
- Launch Date: November 9, 2024
- Launched By: Shri Amitabh Kant
- Location: National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi
- Ministry Involved: Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
- Coordinating Agency: Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), in collaboration with the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG)
The initiative was unveiled at a significant event held at the National Institute of Immunology, which is a leading research center in India. Shri Amitabh Kant, a key figure in promoting India’s biotechnology sector, emphasized the importance of such projects for the nation’s scientific growth.
Key Features of the Initiative
The “One Day One Genome” initiative aims to uncover the potential of India’s diverse microbial communities. It has several important features:
- Daily Sequencing of Bacterial Genomes: Every day, the initiative will focus on sequencing one bacterial genome, providing valuable insights into microbial life.
- Free Access to Genome Data: The genomes sequenced will be made available to the public, offering freely accessible, annotated bacterial genome data. This will include detailed graphical summaries, infographics, and genome assembly/annotation information.
- Focus Areas: The data collected will support research in three main areas:
- Environment Management: Understanding the role of microbes in the ecosystem and environmental conservation.
- Agriculture: Exploring microbial solutions for agricultural development and sustainability.
- Human Health: Investigating the impact of microbes on human health and disease prevention.
Promoting Innovation and Community Benefits
The initiative not only encourages scientific research but also promotes public engagement. By providing open access to genomic data and visual summaries, it fosters greater participation from researchers and the general public. The ultimate goal is to stimulate innovation that can benefit both scientific communities and local communities in India.
Important Points:
- Initiative Name: One Day One Genome
- Launched By: Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC)
- Launch Date: November 9, 2024
- Launch Event Location: National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi
- Key Figure at Launch: Shri Amitabh Kant
- Coordinating Agency: Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) in collaboration with National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG)
Key Features of the Initiative:
- Daily Sequencing: Focus on sequencing one bacterial genome per day.
- Free Access to Data: Genomic data made available for free, including annotated bacterial genomes, graphical summaries, and infographics.
- Research Focus Areas:
- Environmental Management
- Agricultural Development
- Human Health Improvement
- Public and Scientific Engagement: Promotes collaboration and innovation through open access to data.
Objectives:
- Highlight India’s microbial diversity.
- Support scientific research in environment, agriculture, and human health.
- Encourage public participation and community benefits through freely available scientific data.
Impact:
- Stimulate innovation in biotechnology.
- Provide valuable insights for environmental, agricultural, and health-related research in India.
Why In News
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) have launched the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative to showcase India’s rich microbial diversity, aiming to unlock new scientific insights that can benefit sectors like agriculture, health, and environmental sustainability.
MCQs about One Day One Genome Initiative
-
Who launched the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative?
A. Shri Narendra Modi
B. Shri Amitabh Kant
C. Dr. Harsh Vardhan
D. Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal
-
What is the primary aim of the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative?
A. To sequence the genomes of plants
B. To highlight India’s microbial diversity and its importance in key sectors
C. To sequence human genomes daily
D. To promote agricultural biotechnology in India
-
Which organization is coordinating the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative in collaboration with the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG)?
A. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
B. Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC)
C. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
D. Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF)
-
What does the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative provide to the public?
A. Only research papers
B. Free access to annotated bacterial genome data
C. Agricultural technologies
D. Medical treatments based on microbial data
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
