Vice-President Radhakrishnan calls for research and innovation to drive Vikshit Bharat @2047 during visit to SCTIMST

Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday underscored the importance of research, innovation, and outreach in achieving the vision of Vikshit Bharat @2047, during his visit to the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) in Thiruvananthapuram.

The Vice-President inaugurated an exhibition of medical devices developed by SCTIMST faculty and start-ups at the Achutha Menon Centre for Health Science Studies (AMCHSS). The exhibition showcased indigenous innovations in healthcare technology and highlighted India’s growing capabilities in medical device manufacturing.

In his address, Shri Radhakrishnan commended SCTIMST for its four-decade legacy of excellence in integrating medical sciences with biomedical technology. He praised the institute’s globally recognised innovations, including the low-cost Chitra heart valve, Chitra blood bag, and rapid diagnostic kits for tuberculosis, which have made significant contributions to affordable healthcare.

“The institute stands as a model of how research and innovation can transform national healthcare,” the Vice-President said, urging researchers to extend their work to serve underserved populations and enhance the social impact of science and technology.

Shri Radhakrishnan also appreciated SCTIMST’s impressive record in patent filings, design registrations, and technology transfers, reaffirming that indigenous innovation is central to India’s journey toward self-reliance and sustainable development.

During his visit, he was given a guided tour of the newly inaugurated nine-storey hospital block built under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). The Vice-President commended the new facility for adding advanced medical infrastructure, including operation theatres, cath labs, CT scanners, and expanded ICU capacity.

The event was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Viswanath Arlekar, Union Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Tourism Suresh Gopi, Kerala Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal, and SCTIMST Director Dr. Sanjay Behari, along with vice-chancellors, directors, and members of statutory bodies.