Pioneering Genomic Study Reveals Hidden Microbial Threats in India's Drinking Water

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India and IIT Madras have unveiled India's first comprehensive metagenomic profile of municipal drinking water. This groundbreaking research identifies microbial diversity and antibiotic resistance gene patterns, with major implications for the country's One Health initiative.

The study is the first in India to apply metagenomic sequencing to public drinking-water systems, bypassing traditional culture-based methods. It offers an insightful glimpse into microbial communities and traces of antimicrobial-resistant genes, critical for preventing the spread of multidrug resistance across health sectors.

Published in the 'Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering', the research delivers vital insights for integrating microbiome monitoring into India's One Health frameworks, aligning with initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission and National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance.