BIOMEDICATHON 2020
A National Conference on “Promotion of Biomedical Sciences Among the Young” was concluded on the 18th of January 2020 at PGIMER, Chandigarh. Chief Guest Prof. Arvind Rajwanshi, Hon’ble Dean (A) PGIMER, Chandigarh, Dr Manuji Zarabi, Former CMD SCL, and Dr. Anita Agarwal, Scientist “E,” Department of Science and Technology DST, Govt. of India, inaugurated the Conference and Biomedicathon 2020 event. Over 50 participants ranging from school students to researchers to professionals presented innovative solutions towards the healthcare-related problems. “Biomedicathon 2020” focused on nurturing creativity and entrepreneurship spirit among young healthcare enthusiasts from academia and industry. “BIOMEDICATHON”, is an idea-based contest inviting novel and innovative ideas from the young minds. The event was attended by over 200 School/College Students, Researcher Scholars, and Faculty Professionals from all around the country.
The ideas were presented under three groups containing school students, researchers and college students, and faculty professionals. The objective of the innovation contest BIOMEDICATHON was to encourage young minds to think scientifically and promote research among the young. The winner for this event was two first prizes for Kostubh Singla and Ishika Wadhwa (1st), Siddhesh Kumar (2nd), Shreya Chawla and Sonakshi Verma (3rd).
For this event, a total of over 60 entries were received in three groups namely, Group ‘A,’ Group ‘B’ and Group ‘C’. This was overall, a unique opportunity for the participants to present, validate and collect feedback on their ideas. Various cash awards ranging from 5000-15000 were presented to the winning participants during the event. Also, Ideas that seemed relevant and recommended by the jury according to BID-Hub mandate shall be supported for further developments.
Prof. Arvind Rajvanshi, Dean (Academics), PGIMER shared his view about the role of a biomedical hub at PGIMER in the development and validation of biomedical instruments. Whether the advantage of CRIKC institution or the position of being one of the top medical institutions in the country, PGIMER has the expertise and now vision of adopting innovative strategies towards providing improved and efficient healthcare solutions. He further congratulated Prof. Puri and Prof. Mathew for undertaking this initiative under the shadow of PGIMER.
Dr. Anita Agarwal, Scientist ‘E’, Department of Science and Technology DST, Government of India, provided key insights on the Medical device ecosystem in India and also presented several opportunities for funding and support that is currently extended by the Government of India. She encouraged budding professionals to ‘Invent in India’ and spread her vision towards a “Healthier India.”
Prof. Joseph Mathew introduced the Biomedicathon 2020 to the participants and welcomed the participants and the dignitaries to the event.
Prof. G.D. Puri, Dean (R) informed the participants and delegates about the activities undertaken by the biomedical hub viz. testing and validation of biomedical instruments and described the innovations developed at and patented by PGIMER and are available for commercial application viz. ‘Automatic Anesthesia Delivery System’, Infusion Alarm System, among others. He also informed about the indigenously developed biomedical devices which are under clinical trial viz. , Low-cost Handheld Pupilometer, Teaching Laryngoscope, EUS Needle, and others. He shared his journey of a successful inventor, the hurdles and emphasized on the importance of encouraging the young minds and fostering a passion for innovative and creative pursuits.
Dr. Anita Agarwal from DST presented her thoughts on building science, technology and innovation capacity and capabilities in the country. She touched vital topics such as various technology development programs undertaken by DST and government of India, healthcare challenges in India, Funding and support for entrepreneurs etc.
Dr. Manuji Zarabi graced the event with his presence and shared his exhaustive experience working in the area of technology and science. He talked about AI in healthcare, and the need to encourage innovations in medical devices. He guided the young minds and stated that passion and perseverance are vital ingredients of success.
The Biomedical hub based at PGIMER, Chandigarh, with the support of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) Govt. of India, is promoting indigenous development & validation of biomedical devices & instruments. Besides, the Hub is working to bring the promoters, the investors, Investment committee, innovators and other partners together to expedite the idea-to-product-development process. Lately, the BID-Hub has started in-house testing of biomedical instruments to ensure patient safety and to optimize the delivery of healthcare services.
