In a landmark event today, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal, and the Tata Institute for Genetics and Society (TIGS), Bengaluru. This collaboration aims to foster cutting-edge research and innovation in the field of genetics and environmental health. The MoU was signed by Professor (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, and Dr. Rakesh Mishra, Director of TIGS. The ceremony was attended by senior officials and faculty members from both institutions.
On this occasion, Professor Singh emphasized the critical need to explore the intricate relationship between diseases and the environment. He highlighted the importance of understanding how environmental factors impact DNA and the potential mechanisms to mitigate these effects. Professor Singh posed a thought-provoking question, "Is the environment changing genetics?" He noted that there are numerous unsolved mysteries in this domain that require immediate attention. Professor Singh expressed optimism that this collaboration would greatly benefit the students and faculty members of AIIMS through an exchange program, enhancing their research capabilities and knowledge base.
Dr. Rakesh Mishra, Director of TIGS, outlined the mission of TIGS to promote health equity by developing science-based solutions to address challenges in human health and agriculture. He emphasized TIGS's commitment to preventing infectious diseases and providing affordable, high-quality diagnosis and treatment for rare genetic disorders. Dr. Mishra remarked, "By adopting cutting-edge science and technology, TIGS is striving to solve the social problems of the country."
This partnership between AIIMS Bhopal and TIGS Bengaluru is expected to pave the way for significant advancements in the field of genetics and environmental health, contributing to the development of innovative solutions for some of the most pressing health issues facing society today.