Is your health written in your genes? Chiranjiv seeks to redefine India’s healthcare future

For decades, India’s healthcare system has largely centred on identifying symptoms and treating illnesses after they appear. Now, a new frontier is emerging, one that places your DNA at the very heart of how your health and nutrition are understood. At the forefront of this emerging space is Chiranjiv, a genomics venture that aims to build India’s largest genetic database and, in the process, transform how we approach health, disease, and personalised care.

The spark behind Chiranjiv’s genomic vision
The venture is co-founded by Hemant Jain, an entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience across India and the United States. His vision is to move beyond conventional healthcare models and tap into the power of gene mapping to create a system rooted in personalised and preventive care.

At present, genetic testing in India is used largely to detect rare hereditary conditions. Chiranjiv, however, is charting a very different course. By harnessing whole genome sequencing, the company aims to unlock insights that go beyond disease, delving into everyday health factors such as an individual’s nutritional needs, lifestyle linked risks and even the likelihood of future illnesses. Participants in the initiative, the company says, will receive these insights free of cost.

“India’s immense genetic diversity is a powerful advantage. Studied at the right scale and depth, it could open up entirely new possibilities in healthcare,” says Hemant Jain. He adds that this makes it essential to systematically gather genetic data from diverse regional populations across the country.

Globally, many genomic databases are built using data drawn largely from European populations. As a result, the health recommendations and drug response insights derived from them do not always translate accurately for Indians. Chiranjiv aims to bridge this gap by building a comprehensive, homegrown genomic database that reflects the country’s rich genetic diversity.

Why our genes matter more than ever before
Genes are the body’s biological blueprint, influencing everything from metabolism to disease risk. While factors like diet and exercise are important, how our bodies respond to them is often shaped by our genetic makeup.

Research shows that variations in certain genes can influence how the body processes sugar, affecting the risk of diabetes. They also play a role in how fat is stored and how energy is used, which can contribute to obesity and weight gain. In addition, genetic differences can influence cholesterol levels and the likelihood of developing heart disease. They can even affect how the body responds to medications.

With such insights, doctors can move towards more personalised care, ideal diet, exercise, medication and preventive strategies to each individual.

From reactive care to preventive health
Chiranjiv does not limit itself to mapping genes, but focuses on turning that data into actionable health insights. Using whole genome sequencing, it aims to help individuals understand their genetic risk for lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and obesity, identify nutritional needs based on their body composition, predict how they may respond to certain medicines and assess the likelihood of future health conditions.

The company plans to analyse this data using artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver personalised health recommendations. This can enable more accurate nutrition guidance, encourage preventive lifestyle changes and support early action before diseases develop.

The surge of lifestyle diseases in India
India is witnessing a sharp rise in lifestyle-related diseases. Diabetes alone affects more than 77 million adults in the country, with genetics playing a significant role in insulin sensitivity and metabolism. Obesity is also influenced by genetic factors that affect fat distribution and energy use.

Cardiovascular diseases too remain a major concern, with genetic variations contributing to higher cholesterol levels, increased inflammation and a greater overall risk. Understanding these genetic influences can help shift healthcare from a reactive approach to a preventive one, and it is this belief that sets Chiranjiv apart.

A future built on personalised health data
Chiranjiv’s goal is not only to address individual health concerns but also to build a large genomic database. Such a resource could help researchers identify genetic patterns unique to Indian populations, support the development of India-specific medicines, and strengthen healthcare research with deeper insights.

The company also plans to develop a user-friendly AI platform that allows individuals to access and understand their own genomic data, offering personalised guidance on diet, lifestyle and supplements.

Beyond genes: the next leap in healthcare
Our genes form the foundation of many aspects of our health, but they may not remain fixed for life. Lifestyle, environment, diet and daily habits all interact with our genes through a process known as epigenetics. These external factors can switch certain genes on or off, influencing how they function. As a result, a combination of inherited genetic makeup and healthy lifestyle choices can shape better health outcomes.

Towards a new era in Indian healthcare
Chiranjiv could lay the foundation for a major shift in India’s healthcare system, moving from treatment based on symptoms to more precise, predictive medicine. India’s vast genetic diversity, combined with the rising burden of lifestyle diseases, makes this a crucial moment for such an approach. Chiranjiv’s model could add significant value to healthcare by offering a fresh perspective backed by practical, science-driven guidance.

“In the future, healthcare may no longer focus only on treating diseases after they occur. Instead, it will aim to predict risks, personalise care, and prevent illnesses before they begin. For millions of Indians, that future may be closer than it seems,” says Hemant Jain.