Question: Consider the following statements:
(1) The ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, NE, Dibrugarh, has developed a novel technology — real-time RT-PCR assay for detection of Omicron variant of SARS-CoV2 and a kit for the same
(2) Omicron was assigned to the B.1.1.529 variant of concern
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) None
Answer: (c)
Related Facts:
- The ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, NE, Dibrugarh, one of the institutes of the ICMR, New Delhi, has developed a novel technology — real-time RT-PCR assay for detection of Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of SARS-CoV2 and a kit for the same.
- According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Omicron has been detected in 89 countries. It is spreading significantly faster than the Delta variant.
- The Indian Council of Medical Research, the apex body in India for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research, is one of the oldest and largest medical research bodies in the world.
- The ICMR is funded by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
- In 1911, the Government of India set up the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) with the specific objective of sponsoring and coordinating medical research in the country.
- It was redesignated the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in 1949.
BY: AMIT GUPTA