Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Gujarat became the first Indian state to launch a tribal-focused genome sequencing project aimed at tackling genetic disorders such as sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia through precision medicine. Implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), the initiative forms part of the national Genome India Project. It focuses on sequencing 2,000 tribal genomes across 17 districts to identify genetic mutations and hereditary disease patterns. By developing affordable diagnostic kits and promoting genetic counselling, the project aims to improve healthcare access for tribal populations while advancing India’s capabilities in biotechnology-driven public health innovation and preventive medicine.