Genomics in India: The Road Ahead and the Role of in-house Innovation
Key Takeaways:
- Many Indian labs still lack the tech infrastructure and support needed for advanced genomics research.
- Genomic tools built abroad often miss India's genetic complexity and regional research needs.
- Affordable, easy-to-use, and lightweight genomic tools are key for wide adoption across India.
- Strengthening genomics education and hands-on training is essential for sustainable growth.
- Scalable, localized innovations will drive genomics in precision medicine, agriculture, and public health.

India’s genomics sector is progressing rapidly with initiatives in genome sequencing, genetic testing, agricultural genomics, and public health. However, the development is uneven across institutions.
Challenges in Indian Labs
While tier-1 institutes have modern tools, many smaller labs face:
- Limited access to infrastructure
- Lack of technical support
- High software costs
- Gaps in training and digital literacy
These issues hinder widespread genomics adoption.
Need for India-Specific Genomic Tools
India's diverse population requires solutions tailored to local needs. Western tools often fall short in addressing regional research challenges. Key requirements include:
- Affordability for government and academic users
- Ease of use for varying skill levels
- Localization to reflect Indian research and language preferences
Capacity Building in Academia
Sustainable growth depends on strengthening education through:
- Updated academic content on genomics
- Hands-on learning via software or labs
- Regional workshops, webinars, and knowledge-sharing
- Stronger collaboration between academia and research bodies
Infrastructure-Friendly Solutions
Many labs operate with low-bandwidth internet and limited computing. Tools must:
- Work on low-spec systems
- Run in web browsers without installations
- Be flexible in data hosting and comply with local rules
Future Trends
India’s genomics future points to:
- Multi-omics integration
- Automated pipelines
- AI-driven data insights
- Growth in precision medicine and agri-genomics
Conclusion
For genomics to thrive in India, tools must align with local infrastructure, educational needs, and affordability. Focused innovation and inclusive access will be key to driving widespread and meaningful adoption.