DBT’s AI-Powered GARBH-INi Initiative Strengthens Maternal Health Research
India has launched its largest pregnancy cohort study under the GARBH INi, enrolling nearly 12,000 women. Spearheaded by the Department of Biotechnology, the initiative targets preterm births using indigenous, AI-driven approaches.
About GARBH-INi Initiative
GARBH-INi (Interdisciplinary Group for Advanced Research on Birth Outcomes) is a flagship programme integrating clinical epidemiology, multi-omics biomarkers and artificial intelligence. It aims to build personalised prediction models suited to Indian populations, enabling early identification of pregnancy-related risks and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Scale and Scientific Data Repository
The initiative has generated one of South Asia’s largest pregnancy datasets, comprising over 1.6 million biospecimens and more than one million ultrasound images. This has led to the creation of a national biorepository and the GARBH-INi-DRISHTI platform, which supports data sharing and collaborative research across institutions.
Key Innovations and Outcomes
Researchers have developed AI-based pregnancy dating models customised for Indian conditions, along with microbiome-based predictors for assessing preterm birth risks. The programme has also contributed to rapid diagnostic tools and the identification of genetic markers, enabling early intervention and better healthcare planning.
Collaborations and Future Prospects
The initiative has enabled partnerships with private sector firms for developing AI-enabled ultrasound systems and predictive health platforms. It reflects India’s expanding bioeconomy and its increasing focus on integrating advanced biotechnology with public health solutions.
Exam-Focused Points
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Initiative: GARBH-INi (DBT-led)
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Objective: Reduce preterm births & improve neonatal health
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Scale: ~12,000 participants
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Data: 1.6 million biospecimens + 1 million ultrasound images
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Tools: AI models & multi-omics (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics)
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Platform: GARBH-INi-DRISHTI
Month: Current Affairs - March 25, 2026
Category: Health, Biotechnology