Brief Context
In News The use of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) is a major point of contention at the 11th session of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) in Lima (Peru). Digital Sequence Information (DSI) It refers to genetic data derived from DNA, RNA, or proteins that are stored, shared, and analyzed digitally. It enables genome sequencing, bioinformatics, synthetic biology, and precision medicine, allowing researchers to study biodiversity without phys
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Syllabus: GS3/Science and Technology
In News
- The use of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) is a major point of contention at the 11th session of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) in Lima (Peru).
Digital Sequence Information (DSI)
- It refers to genetic data derived from DNA, RNA, or proteins that are stored, shared, and analyzed digitally.
- It enables genome sequencing, bioinformatics, synthetic biology, and precision medicine, allowing researchers to study biodiversity without physically accessing biological samples.
Applications
- It facilitates genome mapping, drug discovery, and agricultural innovation.
- It Helps track pathogens (e.g., COVID-19 genome sequencing).
- It supports crop improvement and resilience through genome editing.
- It Assists in biodiversity monitoring and species preservation.
Issues and Concerns
- Many countries fear that corporations use DSI to bypass benefit-sharing obligations under treaties like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
- UN experts warn that DSI could undermine farmers’ rights, as companies claim intellectual property over digital genetic data without compensating source communities.
- Current treaties (CBD, Nagoya Protocol, ITPGRFA) struggle to address digital data, which is easily shared across borders.
- The Treaty’s Multilateral System (MLS) has facilitated exchanges of millions of plant genetic resources, but benefit-sharing to farmers has been minimal.
- Concentration of genomic databases in a few countries or corporations raises concerns of unequal access.
Way Ahead
- Digital Sequence Information (DSI) presents both opportunities and challenges, driving scientific progress while raising concerns of equity and sovereignty.
- There is a need to balance open access with fair benefit-sharing through inclusive governance under international treaties, building genomic infrastructure in developing nations, and ensuring recognition for communities that provide genetic resources.
- For biodiversity-rich countries like India, clear national policies linking DSI use with farmers’ rights and conservation are vital, while global cooperation through a multilateral mechanism is essential to prevent monopolization and ensure DSI contributes to sustainable development.
Source :DTE