Category: Health

Health

FACC and Kineco Aerospace & Defence Announce Strategic Global Partnership at Paris Air Show 2025

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Paris, France | June 2025 – In a landmark development at the 2025 Paris Air Show, FACC AG, a global leader in the aerospace supply chain ecosystem, and Kineco Aerospace & Defence, a subsidiary of the Goa, India-based Kineco Group, have officially signed a multi-year Supply Chain Agreement. This strategic partnership marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration focused on sourcing advanced composite components for commercial aircraft programs.

The agreement was signed on Day 2 of the prestigious international aerospace event and signals a significant step forward in global aerospace collaboration. The partnership is poised to leverage the respective strengths of both companies—FACC’s global market leadership and innovation capabilities, and Kineco’s expertise in high-performance composites manufacturing.

A Strategic Milestone

This multi-year agreement kicks off with a focused 10-month technical alignment and qualification phase, during which both organizations will work closely to harmonize technical standards, obtain customer approvals, and build operational synergy. Upon successful completion, the collaboration is expected to scale into a long-term, high-value partnership that will support key commercial aircraft work packages across global markets.

“This partnership is a strong validation of Kineco’s capabilities in advanced composites,” said Shekhar Sardessai, Founder & Chairman of Kineco Group. “We are honored that FACC has selected Kineco as a strategic partner for supplying critical components to their civil aircraft programs. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our vision of expanding Kineco Group’s presence and influence in the global aerospace industry.”

A Testament to Innovation and Excellence

The partnership is a clear reflection of FACC’s strategic approach to building a globally competitive supply chain through alliances with partners who meet the highest standards in quality, cost-efficiency, delivery reliability, and technological innovation.

By collaborating with Kineco, FACC reinforces its commitment to enhancing its global supply chain network and tapping into India’s rapidly evolving aerospace manufacturing ecosystem. For Kineco, this partnership opens up new avenues for growth and solidifies its position as a trusted Indian supplier to global aerospace OEMs and Tier-1 companies.

Looking Ahead

The FACC–Kineco alliance stands as a testament to the shifting dynamics of global aerospace manufacturing, where strategic partnerships and innovation-driven collaborations are shaping the future. As the global aviation industry continues to expand, this partnership positions both companies to be at the forefront of delivering cutting-edge composite solutions to the world’s leading aircraft manufacturers.

Stay tuned as this exciting collaboration takes flight and sets new benchmarks for global aerospace partnerships.

Health

Manipal Hospital Goa Performs Groundbreaking Neurosurgical Procedure to Save 50-Year-Old Woman from Fatal Brain Abscess

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First-of-its-kind brain intervention in the state sets new benchmark in neurocritical care

Panaji, Goa | June 19, 2025 – In a milestone achievement for Goa’s medical community, Manipal Hospital Goa has successfully performed a life-saving neurosurgical intervention on a 50-year-old woman suffering from a ruptured brain abscess — a condition that is nearly always fatal without immediate and innovative intervention.

Using a first-of-its-kind neurosurgical protocol in the state, the hospital’s expert team not only stabilized the patient but also enabled her to make a complete neurological recovery, underscoring the power of medical innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

🚨 A Critical Diagnosis: A Race Against Time

The patient, referred to as Kriti (name changed for privacy), was rushed to Manipal Hospital in a rapidly deteriorating state — high-grade fever, altered consciousness, severe headache, and limb weakness. MRI scans confirmed a deep abscess in the left hemisphere of her brain that had ruptured into the ventricles, the fluid-filled cavities responsible for circulating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

“Once an abscess ruptures into the ventricles, survival becomes extremely rare,” said Dr. Parul Dubey, Consultant Neurologist. “We had to act swiftly, think differently, and work as one.”

🛠️ The Game-Changer: A Bold Neurosurgical Strategy

Standard surgical approaches were deemed too risky due to the depth and complexity of the infection. In an unprecedented move, the team led by Dr. Omkar Churi, Consultant Neurosurgeon, implemented a novel use of the External Ventricular Drain (EVD) — typically used to relieve pressure in the brain.

This time, the EVD became a precision drug delivery system, allowing the team to administer antibiotics directly into the brain’s ventricles.

“We used the EVD not just for pressure relief, but to transform it into a conduit for direct, localised antibiotic therapy — a calculated risk, and it paid off,” explained Dr. Churi.

💉 Targeted Treatment, Full Recovery

Over the next two weeks:

  • Targeted antibiotics were delivered directly into the brain via the EVD.
  • Daily saline washes were performed to flush out infection.
  • A four-week course of intravenous antibiotics accompanied the localized therapy.

Extreme sterile precautions were taken to prevent secondary infections. Follow-up MRIs showed complete resolution of the brain abscess, reduced swelling, and normalization of intracranial pressure.

Kriti made a full cognitive and physical recovery, regaining mobility and mental clarity. She was discharged in stable condition and has since resumed her daily activities.

🧬 A Turning Point for Neurosurgery in Goa

“This is not just a win for one patient. It’s a leap forward for neurosurgical innovation in Goa,” said Dr. Parul Dubey. “This case exemplifies how interdisciplinary teamwork and innovation can save lives even in the most high-risk scenarios.”

The effort was a multidisciplinary success, involving:

  • Dr. Parul Dubey – Consultant Neurologist
  • Dr. Omkar Churi – Consultant Neurosurgeon
  • Dr. Milind Naik – Intensivist
  • Dr. Marzook – Microbiologist

Their work represents a significant advancement in neurocritical care and offers a blueprint for similar interventions in resource-limited settings.

📚 About Brain Abscesses and Ventricular Rupture

Brain abscesses are rare but serious infections, often resulting from bacteria or fungi entering the brain via the bloodstream. When they rupture into the brain’s ventricular system:

  • They increase intracranial pressure
  • Disrupt the flow of cerebrospinal fluid
  • Cause rapid neurological deterioration
  • And significantly raise the risk of mortality

Manipal Hospital’s approach illustrates how minimally invasive, precision-based medicine can defy odds and redefine standards of care.

🏥 About Manipal Hospital Goa

Manipal Hospital Goa is a leading tertiary care facility in the region, offering state-of-the-art services in neurology, neurosurgery, cardiology, oncology, and more. Known for medical excellence and compassionate care, the hospital continues to push boundaries in patient-centric treatment and clinical innovation.

Health

Government of India Announces ₹10-Crore Prize for Breakthrough Drug to Treat Sickle Cell Disease

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In collaboration with AIIMS-Delhi, the nation launches a high-stakes competition to accelerate innovation in rare disease treatment

New Delhi, June 20, 2025 – In a landmark initiative aimed at eradicating the devastating effects of sickle cell disease (SCD), the Government of India has unveiled a ₹10-crore prize challenge for the development of a breakthrough drug to treat the condition. This ambitious program, spearheaded in collaboration with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, seeks to harness cutting-edge scientific research, innovation, and public-private collaboration to deliver a scalable, affordable solution to one of India’s most pressing genetic health burdens.

🚨 The Urgency: Why Sickle Cell Disease?

Sickle cell disease is a hereditary blood disorder that affects hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen throughout the body. India carries one of the largest burdens of SCD globally, with tribal and under-resourced communities in central and eastern India disproportionately affected.

“We are committed to eliminating sickle cell disease as a public health threat by 2047,” said Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, adding that this initiative aligns with the broader mission of Ayushman Bharat and the National Health Policy.

🏆 About the ₹10-Crore Prize

The prize money — ₹10 crore (approximately USD 1.2 million) — will be awarded to the most promising and scientifically viable drug proposal that can safely and effectively treat or modify the course of sickle cell disease.

Key features of the challenge:

  • Open to: Indian and international researchers, pharmaceutical companies, biotech startups, academic institutions, and innovators
  • Evaluation by: A national jury panel led by AIIMS-Delhi, comprising hematologists, pharmacologists, public health experts, and regulatory officials
  • Criteria: Safety, efficacy, scalability, affordability, and suitability for rural India

The winning proposal may also receive regulatory fast-tracking support, clinical trial facilitation, and potential inclusion in government health schemes once approved.

🧪 AIIMS-Delhi: Leading the Scientific Assessment

AIIMS-Delhi will act as the principal knowledge partner and scientific reviewer for the challenge, setting protocols for evaluation, overseeing clinical criteria, and ensuring transparency in the selection process.

“Our goal is to push the boundaries of current research and discover a drug that not only treats symptoms but offers lasting relief or potential cure,” said Dr. Randeep Guleria, former Director of AIIMS.

🌍 Vision for Health Equity

This initiative is part of the National Mission to Eliminate Sickle Cell Anaemia by 2047, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023. The goal is to:

  • Screen over 70 million people in affected regions
  • Raise awareness in tribal and rural populations
  • Support indigenous research and therapeutic innovation

📅 How to Apply

Submissions for the prize challenge will open on July 15, 2025, via the official Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) portal. Deadline for concept proposals is September 30, 2025, with final selection and award expected by March 2026.

Health

Victor Hospital Launches South Goa’s First Blood Component Centre

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Margao, Goa – Victor Hospital and Medical Services Pvt. Ltd. proudly announces a significant milestone with the launch of its Blood Component Centre, the first facility of its kind in the region.

This state-of-the-art facility further strengthens Victor Hospital’s leadership in emergency and specialized medical care by ensuring the availability of essential blood components, including whole blood, packed red blood cells (PRBC), leucoreduced PRBC, platelet concentrate, and fresh frozen plasma (FFP).

The centre has received formal approval and licensing from both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Central Licensing Authority (CDSCO) — a major advancement for Goa’s healthcare system.
Patients in South Goa had to travel long distances during critical emergencies to access blood components. This new centre bridges that gap, ensuring timely and potentially life-saving access for conditions requiring transfusion support, such as trauma and emergency, major surgeries, cancer care, anaemia, clotting disorders, thrombocytopenia, and severe dengue.

The Blood Component Centre was formally inaugurated on 14th June, commemorating World Blood Donor Day, in the presence of Hon’ble MLA Mr. Digambar Kamat, Chairperson of Margao Municipality Shri Damodar Shirodkar, Social Worker Mr. Yogiraj Kamat, Directors Mr. Varun Albuquerque and Ms. Roana Costa, MS & COO Dr. Ajay Gangoli, and Sr. Pathologist Dr. Eugene D’Souza.
A mega blood donation camp was also held, and the 11th edition of Health Vogue was released to mark the occasion.

Dr. Ajay Gangoli, COO of Victor Hospital, stated that this service not only enhances patient care, but also ensures safer outcomes for people across the state and beyond.
“This also affirms our commitment to reach more people and provide uncompromised care when it matters most,” he added.

Dr. Eugene D’Souza, M.D., Senior Consultant at the Victor Hospital Blood Centre, said,
“This is not just a milestone for Victor Hospital – it marks a turning point in healthcare delivery for South Goa. A key highlight is the availability of leucoreduced PRBC, which undergoes a special filtration process to remove white blood cells. The blood is thoroughly tested to ensure safe transfusions.”

Mr. Varun Albuquerque, Director of Alcon Victor Group, said,
“We are proud to establish an advanced facility that can make a real difference in emergencies. This Centre reflects our values—clinical excellence, timely access, and compassion. It is our way of giving back to the people of Goa by building something that saves lives every day.”

Mr. Digambar Kamat, Hon’ble MLA of Margao, who inaugurated the facility, stated,
“Victor Hospital continues to be a pillar of strength for healthcare in South Goa. With the Blood Component Centre, they are setting a new benchmark. I congratulate the entire team for this achievement and their unwavering service to the community.”

Ms. Roana Costa, Executive Director, added,
“Our efforts go beyond infrastructure. We want to build awareness and inspire a culture of regular blood donation. With our Health Vogue magazine, now in its 11th edition, we continue to create meaningful health conversations across Goa.”

Victor Hospital’s ecosystem is supported by a committed team of super-specialists, enabling the delivery of comprehensive, holistic care across departments.
In line with its mission to promote safe blood transfusions, Victor Hospital is also launching a voluntary blood donation campaign. Regular donation drives will be organized in collaboration with NGOs, community groups, and corporate partners to reduce dependency on replacement donors and ease the burden on families during crises.

As part of the celebration, Victor Hospital felicitated ten selfless blood donors on world blood donor day for their invaluable contributions to saving lives.
A special recognition was accorded to Mr. Sudesh Narvekar, who has donated blood over 100 times, serving as an inspiring example of dedication to humanity and community health.

Health

Interventional Radiologist at Manipal Hospital Treats Rare Giant Prostate Cases Without Surgery Using Advanced Minimally Invasive Technique

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Goa, June 13, 2025: In a significant breakthrough in the management of prostate disorders, Dr. Charudutt Sambhaji, Senior Vascular and Interventional Radiologist at Manipal Hospital, Goa, has successfully treated two patients suffering from giant prostatic hyperplasia (GPH) using a minimally invasive, non-surgical technique known as Prostatic Artery Embolization (PAE).

A normal prostate weighs less than 20 grams and is about the size of a walnut. In contrast, giant prostatic hyperplasia is a rare and extreme form of benign prostate enlargement where the gland can grow beyond 200 grams, severely affecting urinary function and quality of life.

Traditionally, such large prostates require open or robotic surgery or Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), which are associated with risks such as bleeding, urinary incontinence, retrograde ejaculation, and extended recovery time, particularly problematic in elderly or medically unfit patients.

Dr. Charudutt Sambhaji, who brings over 21 years of experience in vascular and interventional radiology, performed Prostatic Artery Embolization—a state-of-the-art, image-guided procedure that selectively blocks the arteries supplying blood to the prostate, leading to gradual shrinkage and symptom relief. The treatment is performed via a small puncture in the groin or wrist under local anesthesia, without the need for general anesthesia or surgical cuts.

“Both patients had prostates measuring over 200 grams and were unwilling to undergo major surgery. Following PAE, they showed remarkable symptomatic improvement and resumed daily activities within days,” said Dr. Charudutt Sambhaji.

Compared to TURP, Prostatic Artery Embolization offers key advantages:

– Minimally invasive

Performed under local anesthesia

– Minimal risk of bleeding

– Preservation of sexual and urinary function

– Short hospital stay and rapid recovery

One of the treated patients, a 72-year-old gentleman, shared his experience over a follow-up telephonic conversation: “Within seven days, I was back to my normal routine. I could pass urine easily for the first time in years. I’m completely relieved, and there’s no more sense of incomplete bladder emptying. This treatment changed my life without any surgery.”

Prostatic Artery Embolization is an emerging interventional radiology solution with growing global acceptance. The success of these two challenging cases positions Manipal Hospital, Goa, as a leader in offering advanced, non-surgical solutions for even the most complex urological conditions.