NOV 04: Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, emphasized the pivotal role of research, innovation, and technology-driven healthcare in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 during his visit to the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Thiruvananthapuram.
SCTIMST, an Institution of National Importance under the Department of Science and Technology, is widely acclaimed for its pioneering contributions in biomedical engineering, clinical research, and indigenous medical device development.
The Vice-President inaugurated an exhibition showcasing medical devices developed by SCTIMST faculty and start-up companies at the Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies (AMCHSS). He lauded the institute’s globally recognized innovations, including the low-cost Chitra heart valve, Chitra blood bag, and rapid diagnostic kits for tuberculosis, which have significantly advanced India’s self-reliance in healthcare technology.
Highlighting the institute’s legacy of over four decades, Shri Radhakrishnan praised its achievements in patent filings, design innovations, and successful technology transfers. He urged researchers to expand their outreach to underserved populations and focus on socially impactful innovations that improve accessibility and affordability of healthcare.
During his visit, the Vice-President also toured the newly inaugurated nine-storey hospital building under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY), which enhances SCTIMST’s medical infrastructure with advanced operation theatres, cath labs, CT scanners, and intensive care units.
The event was attended by Kerala Governor Shri Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar, Union Minister Shri Suresh Gopi, Kerala Finance Minister Shri K. N. Balagopal, and SCTIMST Director Dr. Sanjay Behari, among other dignitaries.
