Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 4 (IANS) Vice President CP Radhakrishnan on Tuesday lauded the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) in Thiruvananthapuram as a model for all government institutions in the country, and noted its pioneering work in affordable health care innovations and medical device development.
Addressing a gathering after visiting an exhibition of indigenous medical devices developed by the institute’s faculty and associated start-ups, Radhakrishnan said the institute’s success story has demonstrated the transformative potential of public research institutions coupled with innovation and social commitment.
The Vice President pointed out that nearly two lakh patients have undergone heart valve surgeries at the institute, an achievement that underlines its excellence in heart care.
He said, “Sri Chitra currently has fifty-three biomedical projects in various stages of development. The institute’s record includes 19 design registrations, 35 technology transfers and numerous patents reflecting its leading role in India’s medical technology ecosystem.”
Highlighting the self-reliance drive of the institute, Radhakrishnan said that 40 patients have already received the second generation indigenous heart valve developed at SCTIMST.
“Today, Chitra blood bags are used in every hospital in India and Asia, which is a testament to the quality and reliability of the institute,” he said.
He said that devices like vascular stents and ventricular assist systems developed at the institute will soon be made available to Indian patients at affordable prices.
“The government’s goal is ‘health for all’, and Srichitra is making that vision a reality by ensuring access to cutting-edge medical technologies even for the poorest of the poor,” he said.
He emphasized that research should always translate into concrete social impact and Sri Chitra’s work exemplifies that sentiment.
Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, also addressing the gathering, said that the institute embodies the ideals of self-reliant India by serving the common people through indigenous innovation.
Union Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi, State Finance Minister KN Balagopal and SCTIMST Director Dr Sanjay Bihari were present.
–IANS
SG/VD