Latest news with #KuberDindor
Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Gujarat becomes first state in India to launch Tribal Genome Sequencing Project
In a pioneering move toward improving healthcare for tribal communities , Gujarat has become the first state in India to launch a Tribal Genome Sequencing Project, Tribal Development Minister Dr. Kuber Dindor announced at a high-level dialogue held in Gandhinagar. The initiative aims to enhance understanding of genetic health risks within tribal populations and improve access to personalised healthcare solutions . The consultation was chaired by Dr. Kuber Dindor, Gujarat's Minister for Tribal Development, along with State Tribal Development Minister Kunvarji Halpati. The project will be implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC). Under this initiative, 2,000 individuals from tribal communities across 17 districts of Gujarat will undergo genome sequencing. The aim is to build a genetic database that could lead to the early detection and better treatment of inherited diseases, such as sickle cell anaemia , thalassemia , and certain forms of cancer. Additionally, it will identify markers for natural immunity and allow health profiles to be linked with tailored medical care. Speaking at the event, Dr. Dindor stated, "This project will serve as a milestone--bridging the gap between science and tradition--toward a healthier and more prosperous future for our tribal communities. It's not just a scientific initiative, but a focused campaign to bring long-term improvements in tribal health." Experts participating in the dialogue emphasised the critical role of genomic data in tribal healthcare. They noted that the project is not merely about scientific discovery, but about empowering communities through modern technology and advanced data analysis. The initiative will feature cutting-edge facilities for everything from physical sample collection to the interpretation of genetic data. The Tribal Genome Project also addresses the longstanding gap in genomic data for India's tribal populations. Approved under the 2025-26 state budget, the project, titled "Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat", seeks to create a vital reference database for future research and policy planning. Prominent attendees at the event included Members of Parliament and MLAs from Gujarat's tribal regions, Principal Secretary of Science and Technology Ms. Mona Khandhar, Principal Secretary of Tribal Development Ms. Shahmeena Husain, Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Vikrant Pandey, GSBTM Mission Director Shri Digvijaysinh Jadeja, GBRC Director Prof. Chaitanya Joshi, and Tribal Development Commissioner Shri Ashish Kumar, along with leading scientists and representatives from tribal communities. This landmark initiative not only sets Gujarat apart in biotechnology but also reflects the state's commitment to inclusive development and scientific progress.
The Hindu
4 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Gujarat launches India's first tribal genome project to tackle inherited diseases
Gujarat has become the first Indian State to launch a genome sequencing initiative focused exclusively on tribal communities. At a high-level consultation chaired by State Tribal Development Minister Kuber Dindor here, the Tribal Genome Sequencing Project was announced with the aim of identifying genetic health risks and enabling precision healthcare for tribal populations. The initiative will sequence the genomes of 2,000 individuals from tribal communities across 17 districts in the State. The project, titled 'Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat', is being implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) and is part of the 2025–26 State budget. Detecting genetic disorders Mr. Dindor said the initiative will focus on early detection and targeted treatment of genetic disorders such as sickle cell anaemia, thalassaemia, and certain hereditary cancers. 'This project will serve as a milestone — bridging the gap between science and tradition — toward a healthier and more prosperous future for our tribal communities,' he said. 'It is not just a scientific initiative, but a focused campaign to bring long-term improvements in tribal health.' The genetic data collected will also be used to identify markers related to natural immunity and support the development of personalised healthcare solutions. The project will incorporate advanced infrastructure for sample collection, sequencing, and interpretation of genetic data, officials said. Experts at the event stressed that the initiative is not limited to scientific research but aims to empower tribal communities through the use of advanced technology and data. The project will involve state-of-the-art facilities for sample collection and genetic analysis.
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Gujarat becomes first state to launch genome sequencing project for tribals: Minister
Gujarat has launched a first-of-its-kind project, under which, genome sequencing of 2,000 people from various tribal communities across 17 districts in the state will be carried out to identify the 'burden of hereditary diseases', including sickle cell anemia. Gujarat is the first state to launch a tribal genome project, said Tribal Development Minister Kuber Dindor, who participated in a state-level dialogue in Gandhinagar on Tuesday. The Tribal Genome Sequencing Project, Dindor said, will prove to be a new milestone towards a prosperous and healthy future of the tribal community and act as a bridge between science and tradition. 'This project will prove to be very useful for the health welfare of tribal citizens. This project will be implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Center (GBRC),' a government statement said. Through this project, it will be possible to identify genetic markers of innate immunity, cancer and other hereditary diseases, such as sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, etc. In addition, their health profile will be linked to basic health services. During the budget of the financial year 2025-26, a project named 'Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat' was approved, under which the goal was to create a reference database for the tribal community of Gujarat. MPs and MLAs from the tribal areas of Gujarat; Principal Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, Mona Khandhar; Principal Secretary of the Tribal Development Department, Shahmina Hussain; Secretary to the CM, Dr. Vikrant Pandey; Mission Director of GSBTM, Digvijaysinh Jadeja; Director of GBRC, Professor Chaitanya Joshi; Director of Tribal Development, Ashish Kumar; along with scientists and representatives of the tribal community participated in Wednesday's dialogue.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Gujarat to launch tribal genome mapping project across 17 districts
Ahmedabad: In a first-of-its-kind initiative, Gujarat will begin a large-scale genome mapping project focusing exclusively on its tribal communities. Teams of scientists will travel to towns and villages in 17 districts with significant tribal populations to collect 4,158 biological samples, including blood, leading to the creation of about 2,000 whole genome sequences (WGS) representing over 20 tribal communities. Officials said that while Gujarat samples were earlier part of the national-level Genome India Project, this is the first dedicated effort to build a reference genome database solely for the tribal population of one state. The project, hailed as a major step in integrating science with tradition, was discussed during a session on 'Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat' held on Wednesday. You Can Also Check: Ahmedabad AQI | Weather in Ahmedabad | Bank Holidays in Ahmedabad | Public Holidays in Ahmedabad Kuber Dindor, minister of tribal development, and Kunwarji Halpati, minister of state (Tribal Development), chaired the session, which was attended by scientists from the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC), officials from the department of science and technology, and tribal development experts. "This is the first such initiative in the country, focusing exclusively on tribal groups," said an official. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The genome data will provide valuable micro-level insights into the genetic health and diversity of Gujarat's tribal population, which constitutes nearly 15% of the state's total population. Communities involved in the study include Bamcha, Garasia Bhil, Dholi Bhil, Chaudhari, Dhanka, Tadvi, Valvi, Dubla, Gamit, Gond, Kathodi, Kukna, Kunbi, Nayaka, Pardhi, Patelia, Rathwa, Warli, Kotwalia, and others. The Sidi community, known for its African ancestry, from Amreli, Bhavnagar, Jamnagar, Junagadh, Rajkot, and Surendranagar will also be part of the initiative. As part of the study design, each tribe will include at least one genetic trio—samples collected from both parents and a child—to trace inherited genetic traits. The survey will involve only healthy individuals aged 18 and above, with no visible blood disorders. Officials also emphasized a target of 50% women representation in the sampling. Local administrative bodies will assist in information dissemination and obtaining informed consent. Dindor described the project as a bridge between science and tradition, adding that it will play a crucial role in addressing the health and welfare needs of tribal populations through personalized and community-level genetic insights. Pointers: Understanding Tribal Genetics - The project will provide a comprehensive repository of genetic markers that will help experts assess the probability of specific diseases or health conditions - National surveys have indicated a relatively higher prevalence of anaemia and malnutrition among the tribal population, along with a relatively higher infant mortality rate - Apart from health, the markers will help create a distinct profile of communities, ranging from genetic attributes to their interaction with larger population markers
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Gujarat becomes first state in India to launch Tribal Genome Sequencing Project
In a pioneering move toward improving healthcare for tribal communities , Gujarat has become the first state in India to launch a Tribal Genome Sequencing Project, Tribal Development Minister Dr. Kuber Dindor announced at a high-level dialogue held in Gandhinagar. The initiative aims to enhance understanding of genetic health risks within tribal populations and improve access to personalised healthcare solutions . The consultation was chaired by Dr. Kuber Dindor, Gujarat's Minister for Tribal Development, along with State Tribal Development Minister Kunvarji Halpati. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cardiologist Reveals: The Simple Morning Habit for a Flatter Belly After 50! Lulutox Undo The project will be implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC). Under this initiative, 2,000 individuals from tribal communities across 17 districts of Gujarat will undergo genome sequencing. The aim is to build a genetic database that could lead to the early detection and better treatment of inherited diseases, such as sickle cell anaemia , thalassemia , and certain forms of cancer. Live Events Additionally, it will identify markers for natural immunity and allow health profiles to be linked with tailored medical care. Speaking at the event, Dr. Dindor stated, "This project will serve as a milestone--bridging the gap between science and tradition--toward a healthier and more prosperous future for our tribal communities. It's not just a scientific initiative, but a focused campaign to bring long-term improvements in tribal health." Experts participating in the dialogue emphasised the critical role of genomic data in tribal healthcare. They noted that the project is not merely about scientific discovery, but about empowering communities through modern technology and advanced data analysis. The initiative will feature cutting-edge facilities for everything from physical sample collection to the interpretation of genetic data. The Tribal Genome Project also addresses the longstanding gap in genomic data for India's tribal populations. Approved under the 2025-26 state budget, the project, titled "Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat", seeks to create a vital reference database for future research and policy planning. Prominent attendees at the event included Members of Parliament and MLAs from Gujarat's tribal regions, Principal Secretary of Science and Technology Ms. Mona Khandhar, Principal Secretary of Tribal Development Ms. Shahmeena Husain, Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Vikrant Pandey, GSBTM Mission Director Shri Digvijaysinh Jadeja, GBRC Director Prof. Chaitanya Joshi, and Tribal Development Commissioner Shri Ashish Kumar, along with leading scientists and representatives from tribal communities. This landmark initiative not only sets Gujarat apart in biotechnology but also reflects the state's commitment to inclusive development and scientific progress.
