Strengthening Health Research: Regional Collaboration to Transform Public Health

In a groundbreaking effort to bolster health research cooperation in South and Southeast Asia, the Department of Health Research and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) inaugurated a two-day regional meeting in New Delhi. The event attracted senior delegates from Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Timor-Leste with the aim of fortifying health research systems, sharing exemplary practices, and encouraging cross-border collaboration.

Part of the Regional Enabler for South and Southeast Asia Research for Health (RESEARCH) Platform, the meeting aims to facilitate solidarity and knowledge exchange among these participating nations. Dr. VK Paul, a member of NITI Aayog, commended the countries for their dedication to improving public health, stressing the importance of collaboration to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research, highlighted the common health challenges faced by these nations and emphasized the need for a united approach in addressing them through research. The event also saw the launch of an exhibition showcasing medical innovations supported by ICMR's Medical Device and Diagnostics Mission Secretariat, further underscoring the vital role of innovation in modern healthcare.

(With inputs from agencies.)