Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) facility at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad.
The newly launched facility includes advanced technology for high genome sequencing as well as diagnostic sequencing of clinical samples. The state-of-the-art machine, acquired at a cost of approximately ₹8 crore, is capable of sequencing 18,000 samples in just eight minutes.
According to the minister, the NGS facility will support prenatal genetic screening and counselling while generating large-scale genomic data crucial for disease diagnosis and therapeutic development.
During the visit, Harsh Vardhan also laid the foundation stone for a new skilling, training, and lecture hall complex at CCMB.
The minister later laid the foundation stone for a “Scale-Up Facility for Agrochemicals” proposed under the Agro Mission project of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). The project aims to develop cost-effective and environmentally sustainable agrochemical production processes to support farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Addressing scientists, researchers, and students from Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), and National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), the minister said the NGS facility would help in identifying treatments for rare genetic diseases that are often neglected by the pharmaceutical industry due to high research and manufacturing costs.
He emphasised the importance of promoting “Scientific Social Responsibility” and urged researchers to ensure that scientific innovations are transferred to industry for larger public benefit.
