HT Correspondent
TEZPUR, April 25: The department of molecular biology and biotechnology (MBBT) of the Tezpur University celebrated the ‘World DNA Day’ on Thursday with a series of engaging discussions and presentations focused on the significance of genome sequencing in modern science and medicine.
Nitin Chaudhary, professor of the department of biosciences and bioengineering of the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati was present on the occasion. The ‘World DNA Day’, celebrated globally on this day commemorates the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA in 1953 by James Watson and Francis Crick, as well as the completion of the human genome project in 2003.
Delivering the inaugural address, Shambhu Nath Singh, vice chancellor of the Tezpur University said that the ‘World DNA Day’ serves as a reminder of the immense importance of DNA, the molecule that carries the blueprint of life, and the ongoing revolution in genomics.
“The discovery of the structure of DNA proved to be one of the most important discoveries of the last century,” Singh further said.
Nitin Chaudhary gave an insightful speech on genome sequencing.
“Understanding the structure of DNA unlocked a new era of scientific exploration. Along with the sequencing of the human genome, the discovery allowed researchers to decipher the genetic code, the language through which traits are passed down from generation to generation. This knowledge has had a profound impact on various fields, including medicine, forensics, agriculture, anthropology, etc.,” Chaudhary said.
Speaking on the occasion, Rupak Mukhopadhyay, head of the department said that in the current era, mankind is highly dependent on biotechnological advancements and it was evident during the Covid-19 pandemic.
During the event Robin Kumar Dutta, dean of the School of Sciences was present along with faculty coordinators of the event Surya Prakash, G. Ponnam and Sunita Kushwah of MBBT department. A quiz was also organised on the occasion.
