Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Friday introduced five Department of Health Research-Indian Council of Medical Research (DHR-ICMR) health research initiatives. These initiatives are part of his 100-day agenda. One of the key initiatives launched is the ‘First in the World’ Challenge, inspired by the success of Chandrayaan-3.
These initiatives aim to propel India to the forefront of global health research and innovation, aligning with the nation’s vision of a Viksit Bharat.
Health Minister said that these ground-breaking initiatives exemplify our commitment to a healthier and more self-reliant India. By fostering indigenous innovation and investing in advanced research, we are equipping our nation to tackle pressing health challenges effectively.
Secretary DHR and DG ICMR Dr Rajiv Bahl said, “Initiatives like the ‘First in the World’ Challenge will empower our scientists and innovators to develop cutting-edge technologies that can benefit not just India but the entire world. We are committed to fostering an environment where research thrives, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and a stronger global standing in medical research for our nation.
“The statement said this high-risk, high-reward research and development scheme is designed to foster the creation of health technologies that are unprecedented globally. The programme will fund projects at various stages from proof of concept design to prototype and final product development.
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Additionally, under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), ICMR is upgrading existing Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDLs) to Infectious Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (IRDLs).
This enhancement includes bacteriology, mycology and parasitology, expanding diagnostic capabilities beyond virology. These laboratories will strengthen India’s capacity for comprehensive surveillance and rapid response to infectious diseases, it said.
ICMR also launched the ICMR Data Repository, a centralised, secure and accessible platform of high-quality datasets, ensuring data integrity and privacy.
Moreover, ICMR is initiating efforts to develop drugs for rare diseases, focusing on affordable and effective therapies for conditions such as Gaucher Disease, Sickle Cell Disease and others, it said.
Ongoing projects range from clinical trials to animal studies and design phases, aiming to reduce dependence on imported treatments and improve accessibility for patients in India, the statement said.
