The Programme aims to create a Gujarat Athlete Genome Database integrating genotype, physiological and performance data before the Commonwealth Games of 2030.
Benefits of Sports Genomics
- Early Talent identification: Helps detect genetic traits linked to speed, endurance, strength, and overall athletic potential at an early stage.
- As per a 2023 study, genetic factors contribute as much as 66% to athletic performance.
- Others: Injury prevention, Personalised training, Better rehabilitation, Performance optimisation, etc.
Ethical Issues of Sports Genomics
- Fairness and equality: Genetic advantages may challenge fair and equal competition.
- Genetic discrimination: Athletes may be selected or excluded, creating systematically disadvantaged “genetic underclass” of athletes.
- Privacy and data protection: Genetic data is highly sensitive and can be misused.
- Athlete welfare: May affect physical and mental well-being of athletes through commercial exploitation.
- Sports Development: “Designer athletes” and artificial performance improvement can diminish the focus on developing sports infrastructure and facilities for other regions.
Conclusion
A strong ‘Regulatory and Ethical framework’ is needed in India to ensure responsible use of Genetic Technologies in sports.
