The Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) hosted the DHR-ICMR Health Research Excellence Summit 2024 at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi. This significant event marked the 113th Foundation Day of ICMR, celebrating over a century of dedicated efforts in advancing biomedical research across India. The Summit witnessed participation from prominent leaders in the healthcare and research sectors, including the Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda (through a video message); the Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel; NITI Aayog Member (Health), Dr. V.K. Paul; and the Secretary of DHR & Director General of ICMR, Dr. Rajiv Bahl.
In his address via video message, Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda highlighted the enduring commitment of ICMR in advancing health research to improve millions of lives. He emphasized that ICMR has played a crucial role in addressing critical health challenges such as tuberculosis, malaria, COVID-19, and non-communicable diseases, along with maternal and child health and nutritional disorders. Congratulating the distinguished honorees and the ICMR team, he announced that the tradition of recognizing research excellence will continue annually on ICMR’s Foundation Day, encouraging efforts towards building a healthier and stronger India.
The Summit was inaugurated by Smt. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, who acknowledged ICMR’s pioneering contributions to scientific research and innovation. She underscored the role of DHR-ICMR’s leadership in driving healthcare transformation through their Extramural and Intramural research programs. With the nation’s vision set on ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, Patel highlighted the significance of ICMR’s ongoing efforts in reshaping India’s scientific landscape. She further expressed her appreciation for the dedication of ICMR’s researchers and teams, whose work continues to transform countless lives and inspire future generations.
Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog, applauded the advancements in research and innovation showcased at the Summit. He emphasized that the current strides in health research would not only address pressing health challenges but also position India as a global leader in scientific innovation. He urged continuous progress towards the national vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of DHR and Director General of ICMR, expressed his gratitude towards India’s researchers and institutions for their tireless efforts in advancing scientific knowledge. He highlighted the significance of the Summit in fostering an environment that encourages impactful research, contributing to a healthier and more prosperous India.
Several major initiatives were launched during the event to further bolster ICMR’s contributions to healthcare innovation. A key highlight was the introduction of the Research Infrastructure Sharing Ecosystem (I-RISE) Policy, designed to expand access to ICMR’s extensive laboratory and research facilities. The I-Drone initiative, which was originally launched by Prime Minister Modi on October 29, 2024, was also demonstrated at the Summit. This demonstration, led by Smt. Anupriya Patel, showcased a virtually operated sortie at a Primary Health Centre in Yadadri Bhavunagari, Telangana.
The event also included the unveiling of the ICMR History Book, which provides a detailed account of over a century of ICMR’s achievements in India’s healthcare sector. New guidelines on Intellectual Property Policy, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Funds, and Technology Transfer were also introduced, laying down a robust framework for driving innovation and collaboration.
In recognition of outstanding contributions to medical research, the Summit honored researchers and institutions affiliated with ICMR. Awards were presented for categories such as Best Research Paper, Best Innovation, Best Team Research, and Best Ph.D. Student. Distinctions were also awarded to institutions in categories including Best ICMR Institute, Best Extramural Institute, Best Multi-Disciplinary Research Unit, Best Model Rural Health Research Unit, Best Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, and Best Health Technology Assessment Centre.
The event underscored the critical role of ICMR in advancing biomedical research and highlighted its continued commitment to fostering innovation in healthcare. With new initiatives set in motion and a focus on collaborative research, ICMR aims to lead the way in transforming India’s healthcare landscape.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Ankur Deka/MSM)
