Context:
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Precision medicine—also referred to as precision biotherapeutics—is emerging as a transformative approach in healthcare by customising treatment based on individual genetic, molecular, and cellular profiles.
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With non-communicable diseases (NCDs) accounting for nearly 65% of deaths in India, the relevance of precision medicine is rising.
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The sector is gaining global momentum, with India identified as a potential growth hub, albeit with regulatory and affordability challenges.
Key Highlights:
Scientific Principle / Technology Overview
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Precision biotherapeutics integrates:
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Genetic science
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Molecular biology
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Advanced data analytics
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Treatments are designed to target the root cause of disease, rather than relying on one-size-fits-all therapies.
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Includes innovations such as:
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Gene therapies
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Cell therapies
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Monoclonal antibodies
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Biosimilars
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Market Size and Economic Potential
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The global precision medicine market is projected to exceed $22 billion by 2027.
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Rising burden of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders is driving demand.
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India’s growing biotech ecosystem positions it as a potential contributor and beneficiary of this market.
Government Initiative / Policy Support
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The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has identified precision biotherapeutics as a strategic focus area.
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National genomic initiatives include:
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IndiGen Programme
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GenomeIndia Project
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These aim to map India-specific genetic diversity, enabling locally relevant and cost-effective therapies.
Research and Institutional Ecosystem
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Institutions such as the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) are:
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Mapping population-level genetic variations
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Studying disease susceptibility and drug response
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Such research supports evidence-based precision healthcare.
Regulatory and Governance Challenges
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India lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework for:
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Gene therapies
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Cell-based treatments
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Existing guidelines are fragmented and evolving.
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Affordability and accessibility remain major concerns due to high costs of personalised therapies.
Ethical, Privacy, and Data Concerns
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Use of genetic data raises issues of:
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Data privacy
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Informed consent
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Potential misuse
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Requires alignment with robust data protection frameworks under emerging digital health and data laws.
Significance / Way Forward
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Precision medicine can:
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Improve treatment outcomes
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Reduce adverse drug reactions
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Lower long-term healthcare costs
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India must focus on:
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Clear regulation
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Public–private partnerships
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Affordable innovation models
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UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
GS 3 – Science & Technology
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Genomics and biotechnology
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Emerging medical technologies
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Innovation in healthcare delivery
GS 3 – Economy
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Biotechnology as a sunrise sector
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Health-tech market potential and employment
GS 2 – Governance
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Regulatory frameworks for advanced therapies
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Ethical governance of genetic data
Prelims Focus:
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Precision medicine
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Genomics
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Monoclonal antibodies
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Biosimilars
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GenomeIndia initiative
Mains Orientation:
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Discuss the potential of precision medicine in addressing India’s NCD burden and the regulatory challenges involved.
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Examine ethical and data governance concerns in genomics-based healthcare.