National Biobank launched in Delhi
India Sets Up National Biobank for Genomic Health Research: On July 6, 2025, the Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, inaugurated India’s first National Biobank at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), New Delhi. This project marks a critical step in India’s health research ecosystem.
The facility is part of the Phenome India initiative, designed to collect genetic, health, and lifestyle data from 10,000 individuals across diverse Indian populations. This will help in understanding disease patterns and developing better treatments tailored to Indian needs.
Aimed at personalized healthcare
The National Biobank supports the idea of personalized medicine, where treatments are customized based on an individual’s genetic profile and lifestyle. Dr. Singh emphasized that this would improve early detection of diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart conditions, along with rare genetic disorders.
Static GK fact: Personalized medicine is a growing field worldwide, with the UK Biobank being one of the most referenced global models. India’s version adapts this for its own demographic and genetic diversity.
Unique focus on Indian health risks
Dr. Singh mentioned that Indians face distinct health risks, such as central obesity, which may not be visible but leads to serious health issues. The biobank will allow researchers to decode such silent threats more effectively.
He also stressed the need for collaboration between scientists, ministries, and industries to turn research into impactful solutions.
Boosting India’s genomic research
The project will accelerate India’s capabilities in genomics and precision medicine. The data collected will support ongoing work in areas like CRISPR-based genome editing, used for conditions like sickle cell anaemia and liver fibrosis.
Dr. Singh highlighted India’s rising position in quantum technology, AI, and health innovation, positioning the country as a global leader in scientific research.
Static GK Tip: CSIR-IGIB was established in 1977 and functions under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which operates under the Ministry of Science & Technology.
Voices from CSIR leadership
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR, called the Biobank a “baby step with global potential.” She emphasized that building region-specific and community-driven data sets is crucial for real breakthroughs in medical research.
Dr. Souvik Maiti, Director of CSIR-IGIB, added that the institute’s prior work in women’s health, COVID-19 research, and even space biology has laid the foundation for this national initiative.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Sets Up National Biobank for Genomic Health Research:
| Topic | Detail |
| Inauguration Date | July 6, 2025 |
| Inaugurated by | Dr. Jitendra Singh |
| Facility Name | National Biobank |
| Host Institute | CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB) |
| Project Name | Phenome India |
| Data Target | 10,000 Indian participants |
| Focus Area | Genetic, health, and lifestyle data |
| Modeled After | UK Biobank |
| Key Research Areas | Cancer, diabetes, CRISPR, rare diseases |
| Governing Body | Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) |
