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India Today
4 days ago
- Health
- India Today
Can drones deliver blood in emergency? India test gives hope, flags hurdles
In a race against time, drones beat the ambulance.A drone successfully transported blood bags from GIMS Hospital in Greater Noida to Lady Hardinge Medical College in the heart of Delhi's Connaught Place. Though the experiment was carried out in 2023, the ICMR team of scientists — who monitored the drone as it covered the 35 km distance in just 15 minutes, an hour faster than a traditional ambulance — published a detailed report only ICMR study published in June, titled 'Adopting Drone Technology for Blood Delivery: A Feasibility Study to Evaluate Its Efficiency and Sustainability', stated that drones are a promising alternative for transporting life-saving blood and its components. The study concluded that drones can safely and efficiently serve as first-response vehicles in medical emergencies. This study comes months after drones slashed eye tissue delivery time by nearly 70%. A drone flew 38 km from Sonipat to Jhajjar in just 40 minutes. A road journey takes over two Delhi, drones have even taken to fighting mosquito-borne the ICMR scientists cautioned that more scientific evidence was needed to assess the challenges, and an assessment of the quality of the blood transported using a there are challenges, some natural, others that need to be ironed out, such as regulatory hurdles, weather conditions, battery life, maintenance, safety concerns, costs, and better integration with existing healthcare Indian Healthcare Future-ready With 'i-Drone'.Trial run of blood bag delivery by drone successfully flight carried 10 units of whole blood samples from Govt Institute of Medical Sciences & Lady Hardinge Medical College, for the first time in India. Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) May 10, 2023WHY USE OF DRONES TO TRANSPORT BLOOD IS COMPLEXDrones are revolutionising healthcare by providing cost-effective, fast delivery of medical supplies to remote and underserved areas. In India, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare aims to make healthcare "future-ready through the i-Drone initiative".But transporting blood via drone is more challenging than transporting organs because blood requires strict temperature control and careful handling to maintain its quality and safety, whereas organs have different preservation needs and are triggered by occasional to the ICMR study, the drone trial for blood transportation was largely successful. It demonstrated that blood and its components can be safely transported by following established guidelines. In October 2021, under the i-DRONE initiative, ICMR successfully conducted India's first drone-based delivery of vaccines and medical supplies in the Northeast. (Image: Ministry of Science and Technology) WHAT DOES ICMR'S STUDY ON DRONE BLOOD DELIVERY SAY?In the study, four types of blood components (like whole blood, packed red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma, or platelets) were safely transported using drones with special temperature-controlled boxes. The drone delivery was much faster than using a van. The drone delivery took just 15 minutes, while a van took over an hour for the same special drone that can take-off and land like a helicopter and fly up to 40 km was used to carry 4 to 6 blood bags along with cool gel packs, weighing about 4 kg, and all flights followed India's drone safety was no damage (called hemolysis) to the blood during transport. The temperature stayed within safe limits during and after the flight. While some small changes were seen in certain blood components, these changes happened with both drone and van transport, and overall, the quality of the blood remained safe, the ICMR study said."Hence, the drone is a potential alternative to explore in tropical countries as a first response vehicle in emergencies," it said."But more scientific evidence is required about the practicality, operational challenges and impact on the quality of blood after transportation via drone," the study noted further. Rwanda was the first to launch a medical drone framework in 2016 with Zipline. The UK, after NHS-backed trials, has a national plan for BVLOS medical deliveries by 2026. (AFP Image for representation) advertisementCHALLENGES OF USING DRONES FOR BLOOD DELIVERY?The ICMR confirmed that blood and its components can be safely transported via drones if strict guidelines are followed. It recommended maintaining blood component-specific temperatures to prevent hemolysis or bacterial contamination, using specialised cooling systems and real-time monitoring to ensure blood study advised rigorous validation of drone vibrations to avoid damaging red blood cells, plasma, or platelets, and emphasised that pre-flight checks are vital. Compliance with aviation regulations and coordination with air traffic control were also said to be critical for safe beyond visual line of sight operations, particularly in rural areas.A pan-India robust regulatory framework is also diverse topography of high mountains and humid plains may affect drone current high costs of drone technology, urban congestion and limited rural blood bank infrastructure hinder scalability, flagged a 2025 study in the Journal of Transport and Public said, drones won't replace ambulances anytime soon, but they may outrun them when it counts most. In crunch situations like foggy mountains, traffic jams, drones delivering blood to the needful will make all the difference. But, challenges may clip the wings of medical drone delivery in India. What the study shows is that drones aren't just tools of surveillance or strike or wedding photography. They're now allies in saving lives. To make that promise fly, the gamechanger must get a real chance.- Ends advertisement
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Did you know? India's capital got its first medical college thanks to a queen and 16 determined women
More than a hundred years ago, when the capital of British India shifted from Calcutta to Delhi, an important realisation struck Lady Hardinge, the wife of Viceroy Baron Charles Hardinge. Amidst plans for wide roads and stately buildings, there was no space carved out for the ambitions of Indian women in medicine. Determined to change that, she spearheaded the establishment of a medical college exclusively for women — a first in North India. The foundation stone was laid on March 17, 1914, and the college was originally named Queen Mary College and Hospital, in honour of the Queen's visit to India. Sadly, Lady Hardinge passed away before seeing her dream come alive. But her vision endured. When the college officially opened on February 7, 1916, it was renamed Lady Hardinge Medical College, paying tribute to the woman who championed its creation. A modest start with a strong purpose The college began with just 16 students and a single principal, Kate Platt, in what was then the Imperial Delhi Enclave. Its affiliation with the University of the Punjab meant students had to take their final medical exams at King Edward Medical College in Lahore. In the years following Independence, the institution was brought under the University of Delhi in 1950, and postgraduate medical education was introduced four years later. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Park Crescent at Alembic City, Vadodara – Luxury Homes from ₹2.20 Cr* Onwards Alembic City West Learn More Undo One of the college's early pillars was Ruth Wilson, later known as Ruth Young, who became the first professor of surgery and later served as principal from 1936 to 1940. Her tenure marked the beginning of a faculty legacy that combined rigour with mentorship. Growth beyond the classroom In 1956, the institution expanded with the establishment of the Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, adding to its clinical and academic strength. The governance of the college also evolved. Initially run by a governing body, it came under the purview of the Board of Administration formed by the central government in 1953. Eventually, in 1978, its management was fully transferred to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare under an Act of Parliament. Today, one of the director professors is appointed as the president of the college, the most senior position within the institution. Opening its gates and growing its reach Though it began as a women-only institution, since 1991, Lady Hardinge Medical College has also been catering to male patients through its teaching hospitals. The MBBS programme currently admits 200 students annually, and its hospitals serve thousands of patients every year. The college runs two major hospitals — Smt. Sucheta Kriplani Hospital, which has 877 beds, and Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, which houses 350 beds. Together, they offer tertiary-level care and critical exposure for budding medical professionals. A centre of research and public health leadership Beyond clinical care, Lady Hardinge Medical College has also made a mark in medical research. Its Department of Microbiology is globally respected, particularly for its work in salmonella phage typing. It has been designated a WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Training in Streptococcal Diseases for the South-East Asia region. The college has also played a significant role in India's public health initiatives. It houses an AIDS surveillance centre and in 2007, it became home to India's first Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) centre for children, a landmark in paediatric HIV care. A vibrant campus rooted in legacy Today, the LHMC campus in central Delhi reflects a blend of heritage and modern infrastructure. It hosts lecture halls, laboratories, an auditorium, a library, sports facilities, and residential hostels. While the buildings have changed and the student strength has grown, the founding spirit of the institution remains intact — to create compassionate, skilled doctors and open doors for women where none existed. From a tribute to one woman's foresight to a national centre of excellence in medicine, Lady Hardinge Medical College continues to shape India's healthcare future — one student at a time. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time Business News
01-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Aditya Sharma Pays Tribute to Doctors on National Doctors' Day with Heartfelt Gesture
New Delhi, July 1, 2025 — On the occasion of National Doctors' Day, popular musician, singer, and youth icon Aditya Sharma extended hearthttps:// gratitude to the nation's medical professionals for their selfless service and tireless not only for his soulful voice but also for his commitment to social causes, Sharma took to his social media handle today to honor doctors across the country. He reshared an emotional video from last year in which he performed the moving song 'Tujhme Rab Dikhta Hai' for the doctors and healthcare staff at Lady Hardinge Medical College and Associated Hospitals. Aditya Sharma has been actively involved in raising awareness about health and wellness, especially among the youth. He is known for supporting medical and mental health causes, often offering his voice and influence free of charge to campaigns and initiatives aimed at public and followers praised Sharma for once again using his platform to spread positivity and gratitude. Many echoed his sentiments, highlighting the vital role doctors play in society. As the country celebrates its doctors today, Aditya Sharma's gesture serves as a reminder of the power of music and public appreciation in uplifting the spirits of those who serve others. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Hindu
25-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Beyond fairness: marking International Skin Pigmentation Day with awareness and acceptance
For 32-year-old Ananya (name changed), a content strategist from Bengaluru, dark patches began appearing around her temples and neck nearly four years ago. 'At first, I thought it was just tanning. But over time, the patches deepened, especially around the folds of my skin. No matter what cream I used, nothing helped—and worse, people started asking if I had a disease or wasn't taking care of myself,' she says. It took years of misinformation, home remedies, and even steroid-containing creams before she finally received a diagnosis: Lichen Planus Pigmentosus (LPP)—a chronic pigmentary disorder that disproportionately affects individuals with darker skin tones. 'The hardest part wasn't the condition—it was the way people looked at me. I became self-conscious, even anxious in social situations. I didn't know this was a recognised medical issue. I thought it was just me,' Ananya shares. Stories like hers underscore the urgent need for public awareness—especially around lesser-known conditions like LPP. That's why International Skin Pigmentation Day, observed globally every May 25, matters. This annual observance is not only about educating the public on pigmentation disorders such as melasma, LPP, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation; it also aims to challenge long-standing biases, foster inclusivity, and celebrate the diversity of skin tones worldwide. Understanding pigmentation in Indian skin 'In Indian skin types, while melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are common, we also see conditions like Lichen Planus Pigmentosus, pigmentary demarcation lines, lentigines, and photopigmentation,' explains Rashmi Sarkar, director professor of dermatology at Lady Hardinge Medical College, Founder of the Pigmentary Disorders Society India, and International director of the ILDS for South Asia, Middle East & Africa (2023–27). LPP, in particular, is a chronic condition characterised by dark, slate-gray patches that often affect the face, neck, and flexural areas. 'It's often mistaken for dirt, neglect, or poor hygiene,' says Dr. Sarkar. 'This adds an extra layer of stigma for patients, especially women. And because LPP is persistent and slow to respond to treatment, it can be emotionally distressing.' Indian skin presents unique challenges in the context of hyperpigmentation. With naturally higher melanin levels, skin of colour is more reactive to inflammation, sun exposure, and mechanical stress. Dr. Sarkar emphasises the importance of tailored dermatological care: 'What works for lighter skin may not work—or may even harm—darker skin. Treatments must start gently, focusing on sun protection, anti-inflammatory agents, and appropriate pigment inhibitors.' Changing norms, growing awareness According to Dr. Sarkar, growing interest in skincare is a double-edged sword. 'People are more proactive now, especially in urban areas,' she says. 'But this also means a flood of misinformation—people blindly adopting global skincare trends that don't account for Indian skin biology.' To address this, she founded the Pigmentary Disorders Society, India's first organisation focused exclusively on pigmentary diseases. 'We need structured research, education, and community awareness—not just quick-fix beauty trends,' she explains. In a culture where fairness has historically equated to beauty and privilege, unlearning internalised colourism remains a challenge. While media and celebrities have helped start the conversation, Dr. Sarkar believes dermatologists must be at the forefront. 'For people with conditions like LPP or melasma, the worst thing they can do is use unsupervised skin-lightening agents or harsh peels. Many of these products contain banned substances like mercury or potent steroids, which can lead to long-term damage,' she warns. 'Hydroquinone, while effective, should only be used under strict medical supervision. DIY remedies like lemon juice or essential oils can make pigmentation worse.' Instead, she advises focusing on broad-spectrum sunscreen, avoiding excessive friction or heat, and using products specifically designed for sensitive, pigmented skin. 'It's about skin health, not skin tone,' she reiterates. A global issue with local roots The International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), an umbrella organisation of dermatologic societies worldwide, plays a critical role in raising awareness and advocating for safe skin health practices. Under the leadership of its president, professor Henry W. Lim, the ILDS actively educates against unsafe skin-lightening behaviors, including the misuse of topical steroids, fairness creams, and harmful bleaching agents, as part of its broader advocacy mission. In her role with the ILDS, Dr. Sarkar addresses the global implications of skin tone bias, emphasising that across regions like South Asia, Africa, and Latin America, skin bleaching has become a public health crisis with consequences ranging from severe skin damage to kidney failure and even cancer. Dr.. Sarkar has helped champion global resolutions to regulate harmful products and shift beauty narratives. 'We must stop viewing dark skin as a flaw. That mindset is dangerous—and deeply unfair,' she says. Looking ahead: policy, practice, and self-care To lead meaningful change in this space, Dr. Sarkar emphasises the need for a multipronged approach in India. This includes strengthening dermatological training with a focus on skin of colour, launching public health campaigns that are firmly rooted in scientific evidence, and implementing stricter regulations against harmful and misleading cosmetic products. She underscores that treatment for pigmentary disorders—whether melasma, LPP, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation—must be evidence-based, gradual, and guided by qualified dermatologists. Foundational care should begin with the consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, complemented by anti-inflammatory agents to reduce irritation and flare-ups. Pigment-lightening ingredients such as azelaic acid, kojic acid, and tranexamic acid may be used judiciously under supervision. Above all, managing pigmentation requires patience, consistency, and a compassionate approach that prioritises skin health over cosmetic perfection. 'These are chronic conditions. Improvement takes time—but it's possible,' Dr. Sarkar says. 'And there should never be shame in seeking help or embracing your natural skin.' International Skin Pigmentation Day is not just a day for medical education—it is a cultural reckoning. In a country where skin tone still influences confidence, social value, and opportunity, this day reminds us to unlearn toxic beauty standards and replace them with science, empathy, and respect. As Dr. Sarkar puts it: 'The future of skin health lies in celebrating diversity—not erasing it.' (Dr. Monisha Madhumita is a consultant dermatologist at Saveetha Medical College, Chennai. She can be reached at )
