Gujarat Launches India’s First Tribal Genome Sequencing Project

Gandhinagar, Gujarat – Gujarat, having already achieved notable progress in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, is now making rapid advancements in the field of biotechnology. In a pioneering initiative to enhance the health and well-being of tribal citizens, Gujarat has become the first state in the country to launch a Tribal Genome Sequencing Project, as announced by  Minister of Tribal Development Dr. Kuber Dindor during a high-level dialogue held in Gandhinagar.

The session was chaired by Minister of Tribal Development, Dr. Kuber Dindor, and State Minister for Tribal Development,  Kunwarji Halpati, and focused on the execution and significance of the Tribal Genome Project.

The minister noted that this project will serve as a bridge between science and tradition, marking a new milestone toward a healthier and more prosperous future for tribal communities. He emphasised that the project will be instrumental in the health and welfare of tribal populations. The initiative will be implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) and will involve genome sequencing of 2,000 individuals from various tribal communities across 17 districts of Gujarat.

Through this project, it will be possible to identify genetic markers for natural immunity, cancer, and hereditary diseases such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia. Additionally, it will enable the integration of individual health profiles with targeted healthcare services.

Experts participating in the session discussed the vital role of genomic data in improving the health of tribal communities. They highlighted that the Tribal Genome Project is not merely a scientific effort, but a focused mission to bring long-term improvement in tribal health. The project will utilise cutting-edge technologies at every stage — from sample collection and physical storage to data analysis.

It is worth noting that in the financial year 2025–26, the Government of Gujarat approved a project titled “Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat.” This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive genome reference database for Gujarat’s tribal communities, addressing the current gap in genomic data for this population.

The session was attended by Members of Parliament and MLAs from Gujarat’s tribal regions, along with Principal Secretary, Department of Science and Technology Mona Khandhar; Principal Secretary, Tribal Development Department; Shahmeena Hussain; Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dr. Vikrant Pandey;  Mission Director of GSBTM Digvijaysinh Jadeja; Director of GBRC Prof. Chaitanya Joshi,; and Director of Tribal Development  Ashish Kumar, along with scientists and representatives from tribal communities.