MSSRF has played a lead role in starting Genome Clubs in schools and conduct genetic literacy programmes in rural areas to create a cadre of youth, young men and women with a functional knowledge of genetics and legislation pertaining to biodiversity and rights of farmers on seeds. The objective of Genome Clubs was to disseminate proper information to the stakeholders through workshops and camps. The workshops focused on issues and legislations in relation to bioresources conservation and enhancement, namely, the Biological Diversity Act 2002and the Protection of Plant Varieties and farmers Rights Act, 2001. A typical camp had participants exposed to Kalajeera rice fields, millet fields, concept of establishing community gene/ seed/ grain bank, importance of community rainwater harvesting system and use of vermi composting. MSSRF also has been conducting a four-week, residential, Vacation Training Programme for Std X tudents in which the students are exposed to current trends in Biology and also taken on field trips to Biodiversity rich areas to sensitise students on the need and implications of Biodiversity Conservation. These programmes are mainly designed to increase awareness on Environmental challenges and inculcate a Scientific temper amongst students. We have conducted these programmes in Chennai, Orissa and Kerala

The prime objective of these clubs is:

1. To promote interest and knowledge about the natural resources and the environment among the emerging generation.
2. To foster concern to protect the bioresources and natural heritage
3. To increase awareness of the economic, cultural, scientific and aesthetic values of fauna and flora.
4. To provide opportunities to acquire attitudes, values and skills needed to protect and improve the natural environment.
5. To make aware the impact that emerging technologies (including biotechnology) have on maintenance and enhancement of Bioresources.

In Orissa, a newsletter is published (2000 copies) regularly, "Genome Shikhha" (Genomic Flame) a bimonthly magazine in Oriya that is being printed and distributed in the town of Jeypore. The genome club members run this magazine by themselves. The Genome club members contribute articles and poems for this newsletter and distribute them. Some of the students have started genetic awareness campaign on their own in their villages and schools. The participants have been able to develop and maintain Village level Bioresource Registers. Genome Club members have also organized various competitions in their school and to spread awareness on Biodiversity and Bioresource Conservation.