India and UK Inaugurate Genomics Centre

The BRIC-CDFD–ONT India Genomics Centre of Excellence was jointly inaugurated in New Delhi on 12 October 2026 by Dr Jitendra Singh, India’s Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, and Jonathan Reynolds, the UK Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade. The inauguration took place during the 8th India–UK Science and Innovation Council meeting.

Genomics and sequencing

Genomics is the study of an organism’s complete genetic material, including the structure, function and interactions of its genes. DNA sequencing determines the order of nucleotide bases in a DNA molecule. Oxford Nanopore Technologies develops sequencing technology that analyses changes in electrical current as nucleic acid molecules pass through nanopores. The centre is a collaboration between the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council’s Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (BRIC-CDFD) and Oxford Nanopore Technologies. It is intended to advance genomic research, support the translation of technologies into practical applications and facilitate the commercialisation of scientific discoveries.

India–UK science cooperation

The centre’s establishment forms part of wider India–UK cooperation associated with the India–UK Research and Innovation Memorandum of Understanding, the Technology Security Initiative and India–UK Vision 2035. The 8th India–UK Science and Innovation Council meeting was held in New Delhi alongside the inauguration. Attendees included Dr Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology and Director General of BRIC; Professor Ullas Kolthur-Seetharam, Director of BRIC-CDFD; and Nick Keher, Chief Financial Officer of Oxford Nanopore Technologies.

Public-health applications

The collaboration is directed towards genomic research relevant to rare diseases, cancer and infectious-disease surveillance. Its stated areas also include newborn screening for maternal and child healthcare, and the study of genomic applications in oral cancer. The centre is designed to connect research institutions, industry and innovation ecosystems in India and the UK. Its work includes supporting technology translation and the commercialisation of scientific breakthroughs.

Important Facts for Exams

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• Genomics examines the complete genetic material of an organism.
• DNA is composed of nucleotide bases, whose sequence can be determined through DNA sequencing.
• The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics is part of the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council.
• The India–UK Science and Innovation Council is a bilateral forum for science and innovation cooperation.