Requirement of Whole-Genome Sequencing and Background History of the National and International Genome Initiatives

Chickpea is the second most important grain legume for food and nutritional security in the arid and semi-arid regions of the world. The genome sequence provides the basis for a wide range of studies, from the important goal of accelerated breeding to identifying the molecular basis of key agronomic traits, in addition to understanding the basic legume biology. The discussions during 5th International Conference on Legume Genetics and Genomics, held during July 8–10, 2010 in Asilomar, USA, provided the platform for the genesis of International Chickpea Genome Sequencing Consortium (ICGSC http://ceg.icrisat.org/gt-bt/ICGGC/ICGSC.htm), and as result of global research partnership co-led by ICRISAT, UC-Davis, and BGI-Shenzhen, involving 49 scientists from 23 organizations in 10 countries the draft genome of kabuli genotype CDC Frontier was published. On the other hand, the Next Generation Challenge Programme on Chickpea Genomics (NGCPCG) initiative unraveled the genome sequence of desi genotype ICC 4958. This chapter summarizes the background history of two independent efforts to generate draft genome sequence of kabuli and desi chickpea genomes. In addition, the chapter also highlights key developments of application of genome sequence for crop improvement