CHAKRA by MUHS: A new nucleus for healthcare innovation and education
Designed as a Centre of Excellence, CHAKRA is set to act as the central hub for innovative, technology-enabled, and socially relevant healthcare education and research. Nagpur, being a hub of medical education with two state-run medical colleges and hospitals, will play an important role in the success of this initiative.
"CHAKRA, a symbolic name, also represents a revolving, integrated model of continuous improvement and innovation in health sciences," said registrar of MUHS, Dr Rajendra Bangal.
He explained the concept after CM Devendra Fadnavis launched this project on Sunday at MUHS Headquarters in Nashik.
"CHAKRA aims to advance applied health research, promote digital learning and simulations, support faculty development, foster startups and innovation in healthcare, and improve clinical practice through data and research," he said.
CHAKRA will function as the 'hub', while MUHS-affiliated medical colleges will act as 'spokes' in a decentralised yet unified system.
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This hub-and-spoke model is expected to ensure equitable access to high-quality medical education, training, and healthcare innovations across urban and rural Maharashtra.
For UG/PG students, CHAKRA matters a lot because it ensures exposure to simulation-based learning, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and skill-building initiatives tailored to real-world challenges. For faculty, it will serve as opportunities for collaborative research, pedagogy improvement, and access to global knowledge platforms.
For doctors and healthcare workers in the state, CHAKRA will be a space for lifelong learning, policy-impacting research, and innovations that can be implemented in clinical settings. For society, it is expected to channel innovations and research towards affordable, accessible, and community-relevant healthcare solutions, particularly for rural populations.
With a clear 150-day action plan, a dedicated Rs 14.80 crore funding, and a future-ready vision, CHAKRA is positioned to become a beacon for healthcare education and research not only in Maharashtra but nationally.
MUHS has clearly stated that CHAKRA will prioritise genetic health, public health research, digital tools, and community-driven healthcare models. The centre also aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) and the govt's vision of a self-reliant, health-secure India.
Key Components of CHAKRA
* Faculty development academy
* Simulation lab
* Digital learning studio
* Clinical trial centre
* Digital health centre
* Incubation hub for healthcare startups
* 'Ikshana' digital health heritage museum
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