The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC) have launched the ‘One Day One Genome’ initiative to explore and highlight India’s vast microbial potential. The announcement was made by Shri Amitabh Kant, India’s G-20 Sherpa and former CEO of NITI Aayog, on November 9, 2024, during BRIC’s first foundation day event at the National Institute of Immunology (NII) in New Delhi.

The initiative focuses on showcasing the unique bacterial species found across India and their critical roles in various sectors, including agriculture, environmental sustainability, and human health. Microorganisms play an essential part in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. They are involved in key processes such as biogeochemical cycles, soil formation, mineral purification, organic waste degradation, and methane production. In agriculture, they aid in nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, soil fertility, pest and weed control, and plant stress response. Additionally, they symbiotically support plants with nutrient and water uptake.

In the human body, microorganisms outnumber human cells and are vital for functions such as digestion, immune defence, and even mental health. While pathogenic microorganisms cause infections, non-pathogenic ones play a crucial role in defending against diseases.

Through genome sequencing, this initiative will uncover the hidden microbial potential, allowing the scientific community to explore the genetic capabilities of these microorganisms. This data will provide insights into important enzymes, antimicrobial resistance, and bioactive compounds, paving the way for advancements in environmental protection, agricultural development, and human health.

Coordinated by the BRIC-National Institute of Biomedical Genomics (NIBMG), the initiative will make fully annotated bacterial genomes freely accessible to the public. This will be supported by graphical summaries, infographics, and genome assembly details, highlighting the scientific and industrial applications of these microbes. The goal is to make microbial genomic data accessible to researchers and the public, encouraging innovation and benefiting both the ecosystem and society as a whole.

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