Geneticist K Thangaraj conferred Padma Shri for contributions to population genetics and genomic research
HYDERABAD: Distinguished geneticist Dr Kumarasamy Thangaraj, a CSIR Bhatnagar Fellow at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, was conferred the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu at the Civil Investiture Ceremony-II held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 23, 2026.
Dr Thangaraj has spent more than three decades at CSIR-CCMB, where his research has significantly advanced understanding of the ancestry, migration patterns and genetic diversity of populations across India and the wider subcontinent.
Through extensive genetic studies, he identified unique genetic signatures among several communities and traced their links with other populations. His work has shed light on the ancestry of Sindhi, Coorgi, Ladakhi and Nicobarese populations. It has also provided scientific insights into historical and archaeological mysteries, including those linked to Roopkund Lake and the ancient port city of Muziris.
His findings have highlighted how populations from Africa, Europe and different parts of Asia migrated to and integrated with communities in the Indian subcontinent over centuries, shaping the region’s cultural and physical diversity.
Apart from population genetics, Dr Thangaraj has made important contributions to the study of rare genetic disorders. His research identified disease-causing genetic mutations among various Indian sub-populations, many of which emerged due to endogamy. He has consistently advocated wider access to genetic testing for the diagnosis and management of rare genetic diseases.
Dr Thangaraj also led the Genome India initiative of the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. The project aims to document the genetic diversity of India’s populations and create a foundation for personalised healthcare and precision medicine in the country.
“It is a matter of immense honour for CSIR-CCMB to facilitate Dr Thangaraj’s illustrious work. His work has, indeed, helped the country understand its history and envision future healthcare for its people,” said Dr Vinay K Nandicoori, Director, CSIR-CCMB.
