Centre proposes to set up repository of human genetics

Mysore, Feb 23 (UNI) The Centre is planning to set up a national repository of human genetics and research data in the country, Anthropological Survey of India (ASI) Director in-charge Dr V R Rao said.

Participating in the inauguration of the state-of-the-art DNA laboratory set up by the ASI here, the first of its kind in South India, he said the Government had constituted a 12-member Expert Committee, headed by former Cancer Research Institute, Mumbai, Director S S Agarwal, to facilitate laying down of guidelines for genetic research and DNA, besides addressing the ethical issue of cloning. The committee, comprising Defence and Law Ministry officials, would submit its report in six months.

Dr Rao said the International School of Anthropology, which housed the DNA lab, proposed to organise training courses in Anthropology and allied disciplines to cater to the needs of the administrative services, managers of IT/BPO sectors, teachers and students.

Earlier, Culture Secretary Neena Ranjan inaugurated the DNA lab.

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