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The Wire
4 days ago
- Health
- The Wire
Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon'ble Union Minister, to Address Vimarsh, India's Premiere Conclave on Science and Research to Encourage Collaboration
At Vimarsh, he will meet leading scientists, innovators, start-ups, and industry leaders tackling India's urgent challenges in science and biomedical research New Delhi, Delhi, India (NewsVoir) India's research and development (R&D) sector is experiencing a period of significant growth, buoyed by the government's increasing focus and strategic initiatives to foster a robust ecosystem for scientific and biomedical innovation. While challenges persist, particularly in mobilizing research from lab to market and ensuring consistent private sector engagement, the commitment to long-term R&D is stronger than ever. Recognizing the need to further cultivate dedicated motivators, engaged researchers, clinicians, and entrepreneurs, and to strengthen collaborative frameworks, the i3 Summit aims to build upon these foundational efforts. As a sincere and proactive endeavor to further this progress, India's leading catalyst, Blockchain For Impact (BFI) announces the inaugural edition of India's conclave on science and biomedical innovation, the i3 Summit – Vimarsh. To be addressed by Hon'ble Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, as the Chief Guest, and inaugurated by Padma Shri Dr. Balram Bhargava, Vimarsh will empower scientists and entrepreneurs to develop new ideas, connect with industry leaders and peers, and build pioneering solutions. Padma Shri Dr. Balram Bhargava is renowned for his immense contributions, including the development of indigenous COVAXIN vaccine during the pandemic, Padma Shri Dr Balram Bhargava said, "The i3 Summit – Vimarsh represents a vital confluence for India's brightest minds. It is through platforms such as this, where collective intellect and shared purpose converge, that we will accelerate our nation's progress in medical research and innovation, delivering impactful solutions for all." Sandeep Nailwal, Philanthropist & Founder, Blockchain for Impact (BFI), and Co-founder & CEO of the Polygon Foundation said, "I am deeply passionate about advancing science and biomedical innovation in India, to solve critical healthcare issues. This conclave is my sincere effort to encourage collaboration where the brightest scientific minds can come together and learn from each other. I am deeply committed to promoting ease of scientific research and biomedical innovation in India." Blockchain For Impact (BFI) Blockchain For Impact (BFI) was set up during the second wave of the COVID pandemic in India. As the world's most transparent healthcare fund, BFI initially worked towards strengthening the Indian healthcare system. However, after the COVID wave, the focus shifted towards fostering research and innovation. BFI aims to utilize and leverage the skills, commitment, and technology in the country to address current challenges and future gaps. Geared around health, BFI-BIOME Virtual Network has been established with the aim to bring institutes, incubators, research networks, medical sector and companies under one umbrella to foster collaboration in translational biomedical research. With a commitment to R&D in India, the BFI-BIOME Virtual Network Program is bringing together relevant stakeholders to discuss, identify, collaborate and innovate in the biomedical sector and expedite development of therapies, diagnostics, medical devices and other healthcare products. BFI is steadfast in its mission to enhance the well-being of marginalized communities across diverse public healthcare priorities. The initiative aspires to become a comprehensive support system, shaping the future of Indian healthcare with innovation and equity at its core. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with Newsvoir and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.).
Fashion Value Chain
4 days ago
- Health
- Fashion Value Chain
Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon'ble Union Minister, to Address Vimarsh, India's Premiere Conclave on Science and Research to Encourage Collaboration
Indias research and development (R&D) sector is experiencing a period of significant growth, buoyed by the governments increasing focus and strategic initiatives to foster a robust ecosystem for scientific and biomedical innovation. While challenges persist, particularly in mobilizing research from lab to market and ensuring consistent private sector engagement, the commitment to long-term R&D is stronger than ever. Recognizing the need to further cultivate dedicated motivators, engaged researchers, clinicians, and entrepreneurs, and to strengthen collaborative frameworks, the i3 Summit aims to build upon these foundational efforts. Honourable Shri Nitin Gadkari to deliver special address at i3 Summit – Vimarsh, BFI As a sincere and proactive endeavor to further this progress, Indias leading catalyst, Blockchain For Impact (BFI) announces the inaugural edition of Indias conclave on science and biomedical innovation, the i3 Summit – Vimarsh. To be addressed by Hon'ble Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, as the Chief Guest, and inaugurated by Padma Shri Dr. Balram Bhargava, Vimarsh will empower scientists and entrepreneurs to develop new ideas, connect with industry leaders and peers, and build pioneering solutions. Padma Shri Dr. Balram Bhargava is renowned for his immense contributions, including the development of indigenous COVAXIN vaccine during the pandemic, Padma Shri Dr Balram Bhargava said, 'The i3 Summit – Vimarsh represents a vital confluence for Indias brightest minds. It is through platforms such as this, where collective intellect and shared purpose converge, that we will accelerate our nations progress in medical research and innovation, delivering impactful solutions for all.' Sandeep Nailwal, Philanthropist & Founder, Blockchain for Impact (BFI), and Co-founder & CEO of the Polygon Foundation said, 'I am deeply passionate about advancing science and biomedical innovation in India, to solve critical healthcare issues. This conclave is my sincere effort to encourage collaboration where the brightest scientific minds can come together and learn from each other. I am deeply committed to promoting ease of scientific research and biomedical innovation in India.' Blockchain For Impact (BFI) Blockchain For Impact (BFI) was set up during the second wave of the COVID pandemic in India. As the worlds most transparent healthcare fund, BFI initially worked towards strengthening the Indian healthcare system. However, after the COVID wave, the focus shifted towards fostering research and innovation. BFI aims to utilize and leverage the skills, commitment, and technology in the country to address current challenges and future gaps. Geared around health, BFI-BIOME Virtual Network has been established with the aim to bring institutes, incubators, research networks, medical sector and companies under one umbrella to foster collaboration in translational biomedical research. With a commitment to R&D in India, the BFI-BIOME Virtual Network Program is bringing together relevant stakeholders to discuss, identify, collaborate and innovate in the biomedical sector and expedite development of therapies, diagnostics, medical devices and other healthcare products. BFI is steadfast in its mission to enhance the well-being of marginalized communities across diverse public healthcare priorities. The initiative aspires to become a comprehensive support system, shaping the future of Indian healthcare with innovation and equity at its core.
News18
11-06-2025
- Health
- News18
Bharat Biotech's Nasal Vaccine 'Can Adapt' To New COVID Strains, Regulatory Nod Awaited
Last Updated: Bharat Biotech told News18 that the company's COVID-19 vaccine platforms are enabled for 'adaptation'. However, restarting production needs regulatory agency approvals. Amid rising concerns over the JN.1 COVID-19 variant, Indian vaccine maker Bharat Biotech has stated its preparedness to address the emerging variant with its 'adaptable" vaccine platforms. However, production will only restart with regulatory approval. Suchitra Ella, Managing Director of Bharat Biotech, told News18 that the company is 'actively monitoring the ongoing situation" and remains prepared to respond, emphasising the adaptability of its vaccine platforms to evolving strains. 'We remain committed to ensuring that our vaccine platforms are adaptable and ready to respond to evolving strains," she said. As of 11 June, India has recorded 7,121 active COVID-19 cases, according to the Union Health Ministry's official COVID-19 dashboard. Delhi, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, and West Bengal report the majority of these cases. Highlighting the benefits of its nasal vaccine, iNCOVACC, Ella told News18 that its intranasal COVID-19 vaccine offers targeted upper respiratory tract protection, ease of administration without needles, and adaptability to circulating strains. The company affirms its proactive monitoring and preparedness: 'actively monitoring the situation and well-positioned to respond effectively if the need arises." iNCOVACC, India's first intranasal COVID-19 vaccine, is available as a booster dose for adults. Its needle-free design, with drops instilled into each nostril, eliminates the need for trained healthcare professionals for administration. Ella confirmed the adaptability of both the injectable and intranasal COVID-19 vaccine platforms. 'However, any decision to restart production is contingent upon regulatory agency approvals. We continue to work in close coordination with regulatory bodies to ensure preparedness always aligns with evolving scientific and safety standards," she explained in an emailed interview with News18. While several countries recommend booster doses for high-risk and vulnerable groups, experts in India have not yet issued such a recommendation. 'Booster doses have been recommended in several countries for high-risk and vulnerable populations. Booster doses in our country are subject to approval from national regulatory agencies." Ella clarified that COVID-19 vaccine production would only recommence if directed by the national regulatory body. She also revealed the extent of vaccine wastage due to declining demand: 'As of early 2022, production of COVAXIN was paused in response to reduced demand and the cancellation of issued purchase orders. Subsequently, we proceeded with the destruction of around 20 crore doses of bulk and almost 5 crore doses of vaccines in vials." A senior health ministry source informed News18 that the recent rise in COVID-19 cases is no cause for panic, likening the current trend to seasonal influenza. While no immediate vaccination is necessary, basic precautions are advised, especially for those exhibiting symptoms. 'Wear a mask if you have a cough or cold, and request those around you to do the same, and people with co-morbidities like diabetes or kidney disease should remain particularly cautious during this period." Although booster shots may not be currently necessary in India, given the mild, influenza-like illness caused by current variants, the preparedness of Indian vaccine companies and their adaptable platforms demonstrate the nation's capacity for rapid response should more severe COVID-19 variants or other pathogens emerge.
