PGI celebrates medical research innovations and collaborations

Chandigarh: PGI celebrated its 11th Annual Research Day, highlighting new medical discoveries and collaboration efforts. The event featured around 400 research publications, showing PGI's dedication to applying lab findings to real-world healthcare. Forty-eight researchers received recognition for their top publications in various fields, including surgical and basic sciences. Additionally, 40 innovators were honored for their significant contributions. A new agreement was signed between PGI and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, to promote joint research that benefits society. Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood, a key government advisor, was the chief guest. He noted that India ranks in the top 5 for 45 out of 69 critical technologies. He discussed how technology is helping India strengthen its healthcare independence and mentioned government efforts in areas like pandemic preparedness and AI. Prof. Sundar Swaminathan from IISc emphasized the need for translational research to connect laboratory work with clinical applications. PGI's director, Prof. Vivek Lal, stated that their research is focused on patients. PGIMER's research achievements were shared by Prof. Sanjay Jain, who noted they secured Rs 109 crore in funding for 915 projects in the 2023-24 year. Innovations presented at the event included a new method to create neuronal cells and a braille eye prosthesis. Awards were given to top researchers, resident doctors, and students. Notable recipients included Prof. Ajay Kumar Duseja in hepatology and Prof. Kajal Jain in anaesthesiology. Forty faculty and researchers were celebrated for their innovative work across various departments. In total, PGI conducted 714 research projects during 2023-24. This included 542 projects funded nationally and 31 internationally. They secured over Rs 92 crore in external grants from major Indian organizations and Rs 14 crore from international agencies.