Geneticist K. Thangaraj Honoured with Padma Shri for Pioneering Work on India’s Ancestry
President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, on Dr. K. Thangaraj, a distinguished geneticist and CSIR-Bhatnagar Fellow at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad. The ceremony took place at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday.
Dr. Thangaraj’s career spans over three decades at CCMB, during which he has made fundamental contributions to understanding the genetic makeup and migration history of Indian populations. His research has provided crucial insights into how diverse communities across the Indian subcontinent evolved and interconnected over thousands of years.
Through extensive genetic analyses, Dr. Thangaraj and his team identified unique genetic markers among various groups, tracing their origins and movements across regions. His work illuminated the ancestral roots of communities such as the Sindhis, Coorgis, Ladakhis, and Nicobarese. He also helped solve historical puzzles, including the mysterious skeletons at Roopkund Lake and the ancient trading hub of Muziris.
Dr. Thangaraj’s studies revealed multiple waves of migration from Africa, Europe, and Asia that shaped India’s genetic and cultural diversity. Beyond historical insights, his research identified disease-causing mutations in several Indian sub-populations, advocating for genetic testing to tackle rare disorders. He led the ambitious Genome India project, which aims to map the country’s genetic diversity for better healthcare outcomes.
The Padma Shri award recognises Dr. Thangaraj’s exceptional contributions to science and society. CCMB Director Vinay K. Nandicoori remarked, “It is a matter of immense honour for CSIR-CCMB to facilitate Mr. Thangaraj’s illustrious work. His work has, indeed, helped the country understand its history and envision future healthcare for its people.”
The Padma awards, announced annually on Republic Day, honour individuals who have made distinguished contributions in various fields, including science, art, social work, and public affairs. Dr. Thangaraj’s recognition underscores the importance of genetic research in unravelling India’s complex past and addressing current health challenges.
