1. India completed genome sequencing of 10,000 Mycobacterium tuberculosis samples, achieving one-third of its 32,500-sample target.
  2. The sequencing aims to deepen the understanding of drug-resistant TB strains, aiding in better diagnosis and treatment development.
  3. This large-scale genomic study will contribute to India’s National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), supporting WHO’s End TB strategy.
  4. Data from the sequencing is expected to guide new vaccine and therapeutic interventions against TB, a major public health and economic burden in India.
  5. As India has the world’s highest TB burden, this scientific milestone strengthens the country’s healthcare and bioinformatics capacity.