Genome Sequencing Laboratory, Ladakh got approval from Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India.

Genome Sequencing Laboratory, Ladakh got approval from Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India as new INSACOG Genome Sequencing Laboratory (IGSL) in the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).The Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India has approved Genome Sequencing Laboratory, Chuchot , Leh Ladakh as new INSACOG Genome Sequencing Laboratory (IGSL) in the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).

Genomic sequencing goes beyond testing for SARS-CoV-2 and allows scientists to classify a virus as a particular variant and determine its lineage. Genomic surveillance has been a key component of public health efforts throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to strengthening the efforts of health department in surveillance for new varients of COVID-19, this technology will be helpful in research related to different types of Cancers, other viral infections, bacterial infections etc.

Two doctors and technicians from UT Ladakh are already trained to operationalize the Genome Sequencing Lab. at Leh.