Goa plans wildlife gene bank in tie-up with Hyd firm

Panaji: Goa’s forest department is set to partner with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, to preserve the genetic material of the state’s wildlife and biodiversity through genome sequencing and long-term storage.Forest minister Vishwajit Rane announced the initiative on Tuesday following a departmental review meeting on wildlife conservation.Conservator of forests Naveen Kumar said the state plans to utilise CCMB’s existing facilities instead of setting up a dedicated genome sequencing laboratory in Goa.“The infrastructure required for genome sequencing and preservation demands substantial resources. We have, therefore, proposed using CCMB’s facility, where genetic material collected from the state can be scientifically preserved,” Kumar said.Under the proposed collaboration, biological samples from wildlife species across Goa will be sent to Hyderabad for cryogenic preservation. The genetic material will be available for future research, conservation programmes and scientific studies.Kumar said govt has granted in-principle approval for the project and a draft memorandum of understanding has been shared with CCMB. Once finalised, the institute will also train frontline forest staff in sample collection and handling.The review meeting also assessed monsoon preparedness, carrying-capacity studies in eco-sensitive areas and a proposal to make registration mandatory for tour and trekking operators conducting activities in forests and at waterfall sites.Officials further reviewed the probe into a recent leopard death, measures to curb invasive species, habitat improvement works, wildlife movement studies, and plans to upgrade facilities at Bondla Zoo. Conservation of turtle nesting sites and greater community participation in wildlife protection were also discussed.