IIT Kharagpur’s Healthcare Innovation Hub Enters Sustainable Phase
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur has marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Sustainable Phase of the Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH) dedicated to Affordable Healthcare. Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) and Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), officially launched this new phase during a ceremony held at the Ben Gupta Auditorium.
Founded in 2019 under the DSIR’s CRTDH Scheme, the hub has successfully transitioned from its initial grant-supported phase into a self-sustaining model. This innovative facility is designed to drive healthcare technology development and translation while covering its operational costs through user fees, industry sponsorships, and partnerships. The shift signals a robust commitment to bolstering partnerships between industry and academia, fostering innovation in healthcare solutions, and ensuring ongoing access to essential research infrastructure.
Empowering Local Innovators
In her address, Dr. Kalaiselvi emphasized the significance of the CRTDH network in enhancing the capabilities of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), start-ups, and individual innovators in medical technology. She highlighted that this progression towards self-sustainability aligns with the broader goal of self-reliance in India’s medical device technology sector, supporting the vision for a developed India by 2047.
As part of the inauguration, Dr. Kalaiselvi, accompanied by IIT Kharagpur Director Prof. Suman Chakraborty and other DSIR officials, toured the facility’s wet and dry laboratories, as well as the THRIVE Centre. To symbolize this sustainable phase, she planted a sapling on campus, representing growth and the continued commitment to innovation in healthcare technology.
The Journey of the CRTDH
Prof. Chakraborty presented the hub’s achievements since its inception, citing its focus on frugal innovation. Addressing the challenges present in real-world healthcare delivery, he noted that developing accessible technologies for frontline health workers is essential, especially in resource-limited settings. Since its establishment, the CRTDH has facilitated over 20 technology transfers and established rural health units aimed at deploying affordable healthcare solutions.
During a special session, enterprises supported by the CRTDH discussed their experiences in transforming laboratory prototypes into market-ready products. The event also featured testimonials from fifteen frontline health workers from remote villages, including Sundarbans and Birbhum, who reported back on how affordable diagnostic technologies have positively impacted their communities.
A Collaborative Future
The event celebrated the convergence of frugal technology, local skill development, and public health delivery, showcasing a model for achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat, especially in rural areas. The collaborative efforts highlight how integrated innovation can create job opportunities for rural youth while ensuring equitable access to healthcare.
Dr. Vipin Shukla from DSIR and other key figures were recognized for their ongoing contributions to the CRTDH initiative. The program was well attended, with approximately 200 participants, including officials from MSME development institutions, clinical partners, and students from IIT Kharagpur, all gathered to celebrate this vital step forward in affordable healthcare innovation.
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