CM opens INSACOG Sequencing Facility
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, July 10 2021:
Chief minister N Biren Singh on Saturday inaugurated an 'Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) Sequencing Facility' established at Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD in a function held at Chief Minister's Secretariat here.
With this, samples now can be tested in the INSACOG Sequencing Facility at ISBD, Takyelpat where genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 will be carried out not only for Manipur but also for other North Eastern states.
Manipur would now no longer send samples outside the state for detection of Covid variants as genome sequencing would be done within the state.
Speaking at the programme organised by IBSD as chief guest, CM Biren noted that Viral Genome Sequencing has become very critical in the fight against the Covid pandemic as new variants of concern have emerged as the dominant strains across the world.
As such, the central government has been putting in much effort to increase sequencing in view of the increasing spread and possibility of a third wave.
He also lauded ISBD, Imphal on becoming one of the regional sequencing laboratories approved as part of the consortium of 28 National Laboratories to monitor the genomic variations in SARS-CoV-2 .
The CM further stated that sequencing would facilitate in identifying hotspots with variants of concern and provide critical information to aid appropriate public health response.
The analysis of data collected would also help in studying whether the mutation influences transmission, clinical outcomes, severity and impact the efficacy of public health intervention and vaccines, he added.
N Biren noted said that assessing genome variants would also assist in developing potential vaccines in the future and ascertain the status of new variants of SARS-CoV-2 in the country.
He also exuded confidence that the inclusion of IBSD, Imphal as part of the consortium of 28 National Laboratories would be of immense help in the ongoing efforts of the state government's fight against Covid-19 .