Tag: Healthcare Innovation

EduConnect

IIT Delhi Launches Executive Online Programme on AI in Healthcare

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Blending technology with medicine, the course empowers professionals to reimagine healthcare through artificial intelligence.

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

New Delhi, July 8, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has announced the launch of a new Executive Programme in Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare, developed in collaboration with TeamLease Edtech. Aimed at healthcare professionals, data scientists, and technology experts, the six-month online course is scheduled to begin on November 1, 2025, with applications open until July 31.

Designed for working professionals, the course offers flexible weekend classes, project-based learning, and practical exposure to real-world healthcare data. Importantly, the programme is open to learners without any prior AI or coding background, ensuring accessibility across disciplines.

Speaking about the programme, a spokesperson from IIT Delhi said:

“This initiative is part of our broader eVIDYA platform. We’re committed to democratizing high-impact learning and enabling professionals to apply AI to solve real healthcare challenges.”

The curriculum includes:

  • Introduction to AI and machine learning
  • Healthcare data types and ethical use
  • Predictive analytics and diagnostics
  • Automation in hospitals and clinical workflows
  • Public health analytics and policy applications
  • Over 10 real-world case studies
  • Capstone project co-mentored by IIT Delhi and AIIMS experts

Participants will gain hands-on experience in working with Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), imaging data, genomics, and tools that follow FHIR and DICOM standards.

The total programme fee is ₹1,20,000 + 18% GST, payable in two installments. Interested candidates can register via IIT Delhi’s Continuing Education Programme (CEP) Portal.

With AI poised to transform global healthcare, this initiative offers a timely opportunity for professionals to upgrade their skills and actively participate in shaping the future of health systems in India and beyond.

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.