Call for Proposals for Establishment of DBT-NIDAN Kendras under the UMMID Network

Government Medical Colleges/Hospitals or SIRO-recognized not-for-profit institutions with established genetic testing facilities, an Institutional Ethics Committee, and the capacity for clinical genetics and counseling[cite: 1].

Background

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), through the UMMID Programme, aims to establish DBT-NIDAN Kendras to strengthen the national rare disease diagnostic ecosystem[cite: 1]. These dedicated centers will provide high-quality, affordable genetic testing and counseling services without the creation of new infrastructure[cite: 1].

Scope of Activities

DBT-NIDAN Kendras are expected to undertake the following:

• Clinical Genetics & Counseling: Evaluation and prenatal diagnostics for suspected genetic disorders[cite: 1].
• Diagnostic Testing: Karyotyping, PCR RFLP, MLPA, and Sanger sequencing for diseases like thalassemia, spinal muscular atrophy, and cystic fibrosis[cite: 1].
• Prenatal Testing: Screening for hemoglobinopathies, aneuploidies, and congenital malformations[cite: 1].
• Outreach & Screening: Short-term trainings and workshops for medical professionals and health workers[cite: 1].

Funding Pattern

• No Non-Recurring (NR) Grant: Institutions must utilize existing infrastructure, equipment, and laboratory facilities[cite: 1].
• Recurring Budget: Support covers manpower, consumables, training and workshops, contingencies, domestic travel, and overheads[cite: 1].
• For-profit Organizations: Excluded from receiving grants under this call[cite: 1].