UMMID Programme Phase‑II launched (DBT) — Rare Genetic Disorders

What: MoS (IC) Dr Jitendra Singh launched Phase‑II of UMMID (Unique Methods of Management and Treatment of Inherited Disorders) under DBT at Prithvi Bhawan, New Delhi.

Components: 25 additional NIDAN Kendras across 13 states + 1 UT; three training centres (Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh); clinician training, advanced genetic diagnostics & counselling, community outreach, and UMMID Dashboard for digital monitoring.

Background: UMMID launched 23 Sept 2019 to introduce molecular diagnostics for rare diseases.

Significance:

• Health systems: Strengthens nationwide diagnostics, early detection and management of rare genetic disorders.

• Capacity building: Improves clinician skills and decentralises specialised services.

• Equity: Focus on underserved regions reduces diagnostic odyssey for families.

UPSC relevance: Health policy, public health infrastructure, biotech governance.

Practice Q: Assess the role of national diagnostic networks like NIDAN Kendras in improving care for rare genetic disorders in India.