{"id":11940,"date":"2025-11-14T12:54:07","date_gmt":"2025-11-14T07:24:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/?p=11940"},"modified":"2025-11-14T12:54:07","modified_gmt":"2025-11-14T07:24:07","slug":"union-mos-for-health-and-family-welfare-smt-anupriya-patel-delivers-keynote-address-at-the-2nd-dhr-icmr-health-research-excellence-summit-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theeducationoverview.in\/?p=11940","title":{"rendered":"Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel delivers Keynote Address at the 2nd DHR-ICMR Health Research Excellence Summit 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

Union MoS for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Patel delivers Keynote Address at the 2nd DHR-ICMR Health Research Excellence Summit 2025<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n

\nOver the past decade, India has emerged as a major player in health research. Initiatives such as MedTech Mitra and innovations like Rotavac and the COVID-19 vaccines stand as testament to India\u2019s growing prominence in the global health research landscape: Smt. Patel<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dr V K Paul outlines vision to raise India\u2019s Healthy Life Expectancy to 75 years under Viksit Bharat Mission<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

Posted On: 13 NOV 2025 4:11PM by PIB Delhi<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Smt. Anupriya Singh Patel, delivered the keynote address at the 2nd DHR-ICMR Health Research Excellence Summit 2025 held here today. Dr. V K Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, was also present on the occasion.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Speaking at the event, Smt. Patel highlighted that India\u2019s health research ecosystem has witnessed remarkable strengthening under the leadership of the Hon\u2019ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. \u201cOver the past decade, India has emerged as a major player in health research. Initiatives such as\u00a0MedTech Mitra<\/em>\u00a0and innovations like\u00a0Rotavac<\/em>\u00a0and the\u00a0COVID-19 vaccines<\/em>\u00a0stand as testament to India\u2019s growing prominence in the global health research landscape,\u201d she stated.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The Union Minister emphasized the Government\u2019s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of science and research reach people at all levels. \u201cIndia is becoming increasingly self-reliant in the MedTech and biomedical innovation sectors. The country is not only innovating but also demonstrating the capacity to deliver solutions at scale,\u201d she added.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Smt. Patel further noted that evidence-based policymaking remains a guiding principle of the Government. She stressed that clinical guidelines and quality standards must be accessible to all healthcare professionals to ensure affordable and equitable healthcare for every citizen.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Highlighting the success achieved in intramural, extramural, and clinical research, the Union Minister observed that India\u2019s health system stands at a defining moment. She encouraged the scientific community to lead the advancement of futuristic technologies such as AI-driven precision healthcare and advanced genomics. Concluding her address, she congratulated all researchers and awardees, remarking, \u201cIndia should not only contribute to global science but lead it.\u201d<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

In his address, Dr. V K Paul stated that the Viksit Bharat vision for ICMR is to raise the healthy life expectancy above 75 years by deploying innovative interventions, solutions, and advanced technologies.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Paul urged the Department of Health Research (DHR) to focus on priority areas such as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), hypertension, and trauma care. He outlined ten key enablers to achieve this vision:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Positioning ICMR, aided by DHR and the Government of India, among the top three health research institutions globally.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Elevating intramural ICMR institutions to global leadership in their respective domains.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Nurturing the world\u2019s largest extramural research system.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Achieving Atmanirbharta in knowledge, interventions, products, and technologies.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  5. Building strong linkages with state health systems.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  6. Strengthening primary healthcare through 1.8 lakh fully functional Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) offering comprehensive packages for cancer, hypertension, oral health, and more.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  7. Promoting awareness of India\u2019s traditional systems of medicine.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  8. Developing a world-class health research workforce.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  9. Leveraging frontier technologies such as AI and robotics for innovative health solutions.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
  10. Developing comprehensive health strategies to counter biosecurity threats, including future pandemics.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Dr. Paul commended the DHR and ICMR teams, along with all awardees and shortlisted candidates, for their dedication to advancing India\u2019s healthcare and research landscape.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

    On the occasion, several key DHR-ICMR initiatives were launched by the dignitaries:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

      \n
    • MedTech Mitra\u2019s Innovator\u2019s Guidebook for\u00a0In-vitro Diagnostic (IVD) Medical Devices<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
    • Transfer of 11 new technologies to 3 companies<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
    • Unveiling of revamped and improved Standard Treatment Workflows<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
    • Assistive Technologies Guidelines and Kit, including:<\/strong><\/span>\n
        \n
      • An Assessment Kit for evaluation of Upper Limb functions developed by the Centre of Advanced Research & Excellence \u2013 Disability & Assistive Technology (CARE-DAT) at IIT Delhi and AIIMS Delhi<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
      • Standards of the National List of Essential Assistive Products (NLEAP), jointly developed by ICMR and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
      • Launch of the ICMR Pensioners\u2019 Portal<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        The event was attended by Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, DHR and Director General, ICMR; Smt. Anu Nagar, Joint Secretary, DHR; Smt. Manisha Saxena, Senior DDG (Administration), ICMR and senior officials from the Union Health Ministry.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

        Background:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

          \n
        1. MedTech Mitra’s Innovators Guidebook for In-vitro Diagnostics Medical Device (IVD)<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          This Innovator guidebook developed jointly by ICMR and CDSCO provides a structured pathway to help innovators understand and plan their Performance evaluation using clinical sample strategies effectively. By mapping key milestones and expectations across the innovation lifecycle, the guidebook enables researchers to anticipate requirements, align with regulatory and ethical norms, and generate robust clinical evidence to support their product`s safety and efficacy.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

            \n
          1. New technologies to be transferred:<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
            Sl..No<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nName of the technology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nDeveloped at<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nBrief Description of the Technology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            1<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nRT-LAMP Assay for detection of Nipah virus<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nICMR-National Institute of Virology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nIndigenously developed loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assayspecifically detects two genes of Nipah virus (N and M gene). The results are interpreted visually byobserving the color change. Sophisticated reading instrument not needed<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            2<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nRT-LAMP Assay for detection of Monkeypox virus\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

             <\/td>\n

            		ICMR-National Institute of Virology\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nThis assay can be used for diagnosis of Monkeypox, where quantitative detection is not necessary. The assay specifically detects two genes of Monkeypox virus (genus specific B6R gene and species specific F3L gene)<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            3<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nRT-LAMP Assay for detection of SARS-CoV-2<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

             <\/td>\n

            		ICMR-National Institute of Virology\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nA rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection assay using LAMP targets the E and N genes, operating at 65\u202f\u00b1\u202f10\u00b0C without a thermal cycler. Results are visually interpretable within 40 minutes, requiring minimal equipment and technical expertise.<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            4<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nAnti-Measles lgM ELISA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

             <\/td>\n

            		ICMR-National Institute of Virology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nThis ELISA uses the inactivated Measles antigen & will provide a qualitative determination of Measles specific IgM in human serum. Which can be used for early diagnosis of measles.<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            5<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nJapanese Encephalitis (JE) Antigen capture ELISA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

             <\/td>\n

            		ICMR-National Institute of Virology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nIgM antibodies in the patient\u2019s serum\/ CSF (if present) and IgM from Positive Control are captured by anti-human IgM (\u00b5 chain specific) coated on to the solid surface (wells). In the next step, JE antigen (inactivated JE virus) is added which binds to captured human JE specific IgM Intended Use: Japanese Encephalitis (JE) IgM capture ELISA developed by ICMR-NIV is intended for qualitative determination of JE virus specific IgM antibodies in serum\/ CSF of patients presenting clinical signs and symptoms consistent with JE.<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            6<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nSingle Tube Multiplex RT-PCR for simultaneous detection of SARS-CoV2, Influenza A and B<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nICMR-National Institute of Virology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nTaqMan based Real Time PCR, Single tube multi virus detection assay (Four plex) Intended Use: Accurate detection of SARS CoV 2 and its variants ( Till date XFG), along with influenza A subtypes H1N1\/pdm09 and H3N2, as well as influenza B lineages Yamagata and Victoria<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            7<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nSingle tube multiplex RT-PCR for detection of SARS-CoV-2 from respiratory samples<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nICMR-National Institute of Virology\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nSingle tube multiplex RT PCR assay for detection of SARS CoV -2\u00a0 from human respiratory samples. Validated by 10 VRDL\/Government laboratories using 75 SARS CoV-2 positive including low medium and high CT values and 85 SARS CoV-2 negative samples.<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            8<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nCRISPR-based Molecular Diagnostic Kits for detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nICMR-National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT)<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nThis CRISPR-Cas13a diagnostic targets the rpoB gene of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, using guide RNA and a fluorescent ssRNA reporter for rapid, visual detection. The tool enables sensitive MTB identification without complex instrumentation, marking a first-of-its-kind development in India.<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            9<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nDetection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis-derived<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

            circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) in<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

            plasma for early TB diagnosis<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n

            		ICMR-National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis (NIRT)<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nOptimized dual target droplet digital PCR assay Early diagnosis of Extrapulmonary TB, Asymptomatic\/subclinical TB, Symptomatic clinically diagnosed\/possible TB, Individuals at high risk of developing TB<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            10<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nAnti-KFD Human IgM ELISA<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

             <\/td>\n

            		ICMR-National Institute of Virology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nThe assay is based on capturing the IgM antibodies on a microtiter plate using anti-human-IgM antibody. Unbound material will be removed by washing. Formation of anti-IgM antibodies complex would be detected using KFD antigen, anti KFD biotinylated IgG and Avidin Horseradish peroxidise (AV-HRP) system<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
            11<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nSingle-tube multiplex real-time RT-PCR method for simultaneous detection of Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika virus<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nICMR-National Institute of Virology<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nCustomized primers and probes with actin control to ensure RNA integrity and precise amplification. Optimized multiplex setup enables rapid, sensitive detection of co-circulating arboviruses with minimal reagent usage<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

            \n

              \n
            1. Assistive Technologies Guidelines and Kit<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
            2. a) The Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) Kit<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              The\u00a0Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)\u00a0through its\u00a0Centre for Advanced Research & Excellence in Disability and Assistive Technology (CARE-DAT)\u00a0has developed the\u00a0Research Arm Test (ARAT) Kit, a significant advancement in the field of rehabilitation and assistive technology. The launch of this indigenously developed ARAT Kit marks a major step toward strengthening evidence-based rehabilitation practices and enhancing clinical assessment capabilities across India.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

              The\u00a0ARAT\u00a0is a\u00a0well-established, standardized clinical assessment tool\u00a0designed to evaluate\u00a0upper limb function\u2014specifically the arm and hand\u2014in individuals who have experienced neurological impairments or conditions such as stroke, brain injury, or spinal cord injury. Administered typically by\u00a0physiotherapists\u00a0and\u00a0occupational therapists, the ARAT serves as a reliable measure of a patient\u2019s ability to perform functional tasks involving\u00a0grasp, grip, pinch, and gross arm movement\u2014core components of daily living and independence.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

              By providing an\u00a0objective and systematic method\u00a0for assessing upper extremity function, the ARAT enables rehabilitation professionals to:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

                \n
              • Establish\u00a0baselines\u00a0for each patient\u2019s functional capacity.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
              • Set\u00a0realistic therapeutic goals\u00a0and monitor\u00a0progress\u00a0over time.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
              • Design\u00a0individualized rehabilitation programs\u00a0focusing on impaired muscle groups and movement patterns.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
              • Communicate patient progress and limitations effectively with multidisciplinary teams to ensure a\u00a0comprehensive, coordinated rehabilitation approach.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                The\u00a0beneficiaries\u00a0of the ARAT Kit include:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

                  \n
                1. Physiotherapists\u00a0\u2013 to evaluate and enhance motor recovery and strength.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
                2. Occupational Therapists\u00a0\u2013 to identify limitations in daily activities and tailor functional training.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
                3. Rehabilitation Clinics and Hospitals\u00a0\u2013 to integrate standardized outcome measures into patient management and documentation systems.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                  Benefits of the Low-Cost ARAT Kit<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

                  In its international form, the ARAT is priced at approximately\u00a0USD 750, making it inaccessible to many rehabilitation centers, particularly in\u00a0low- and middle-income settings. The\u00a0low-cost indigenously developed ARAT Kit by ICMR and IIT Delhi\u00a0addresses this critical affordability gap, ensuring\u00a0wider accessibility\u00a0and\u00a0equity in rehabilitation services\u00a0across the country.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

                  Key benefits include:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

                    \n
                  1. Wider Accessibility:\u00a0Enables widespread use of standardized assessments across physiotherapy and occupational therapy centers, including district-level and rural rehabilitation units.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
                  2. Reduced Healthcare Costs:\u00a0Promotes cost-effective, high-quality care by integrating a validated functional assessment tool into routine rehabilitation.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n
                  3. Support for Tele-rehabilitation:\u00a0The kit\u2019s simplicity and affordability make it adaptable for\u00a0remote and home-based rehabilitation assessments, thereby extending the reach of rehabilitation services.<\/strong><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                    Expected Impact<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n

                    The launch of this\u00a0Low-Cost Research Arm Test (ARAT) Kit\u00a0aligns with India\u2019s vision of\u00a0\u201cAtmanirbhar Bharat\u201d\u00a0and the goal of ensuring\u00a0accessible, affordable, and quality rehabilitation for all. By empowering rehabilitation professionals with reliable, evidence-based tools, this initiative will:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n