Last 10 days to comment on DBT’s recombinant DNA safety guidelines draft

New Delhi: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has invited comments on “Regulations and guidelines on biosafety of recombinant DNA research and biocontainment, 2017” from the institutions and researchers engaged in research on recombinant organisms and risk group organisms as per the proforma placed on DBT’s website.

The draft guidelines feature containment measures for storage, growth, research, manufacture, exchange, import and export of hazardous microorganisms and genetically engineered organisms or cells

The Review Committee on Genetic Manipulation (RCGM) administered by DBT has been mandated by law to bring out manuals/ guidelines specifying procedure of regulatory process pertaining to handling of hazardous microorganisms, genetically engineered organisms, cells and products thereof.

The DBT had earlier adopted ‘Recombinant DNA Safety Guidelines, 1990’. However, in view of the recent developments in genetic engineering research, a need was felt to update and revise this foundational guidance. After series of consultations, a new draft ‘Regulations and guidelines on biosafety of recombinant DNA research and biocontainment, 2017’ has been prepared.

Link to download proposed guidelines can be found here. The comments pertaining to the same may be conveyed by October 13, 2017 to rcgm.dbt@nic.in. The guidelines accommodate objectives, scope, competent authorities, biocontainment, etc. along with information about other applicable laws and policies, risk assessment strategy and checklists.