Manipal May 29, 2024: The MIDAS (Medical Instruments, Devices, and Allied Services) Hub, an initiative by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) — recognised as an Institute of Eminence by the Ministry of Education, Government of India — is proud to announce the successful completion of a pivotal workshop on the design, development, and commercialisation of medical devices.

In the contemporary healthcare system, technology plays a crucial role, driving up costs significantly. Hospitals and healthcare centres rely heavily on expensive diagnostic devices and equipment, most of which are imported. Despite numerous attempts to manufacture these devices domestically, success has been limited. To address this, MAHE has launched the MIDAS Hub in Manipal, supported by the DST, Government of India, through a public-private partnership model.

The vision of the MIDAS Hub is to design, develop, and conduct ethical and clinical trials, leading to the manufacturing and marketing of innovative healthcare devices. This initiative aims to serve institutions and industries along the west coast region of India. The MIDAS Hub at Manipal will provide a platform for individuals, institutions, and industries to engage in multidisciplinary and collaborative technical activities, leading to the development of a variety of medical devices.

A significant aspect of the Hub's activities is the training it offers in various facets of healthcare technology development. In line with this, the Hub organised a workshop on the design, development, and commercialisation of medical devices.

The workshop was inaugurated by Lt. Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, who expressed pride in the substantial participation from faculty members and doctoral students from both MAHE and external institutions. He emphasised that the widespread interest in the MIDAS, DST-MAHE Hub reflects its broad reach among future academicians and entrepreneurs.

Dr Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor of Health Sciences, underscored the necessity for cost-effective, high-quality indigenous medical devices to improve healthcare in the country. Dr G Arun Maiya, Dean of MCHP and Principal Coordinator of the DST-MAHE HUB welcomed the attendees and highlighted the primary objectives of the Hub.

The workshop featured eminent national and international specialists, including Dr Lazar Mathew, Senior Advisor; Dr Premanath, CEO of Venture Centre, Pune; Dr Joseph L Mathew of PGIMER, Chandigarh; and Dr Sudesh S, Head of the UCT Med Tech Laboratory at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Their insights and experiences enriched the event, which saw the many delegates from institutions along the West Coast region.

This workshop represents a significant step towards realising the MIDAS Hub's vision of fostering innovation and self-reliance in the development of medical devices, ultimately enhancing the quality of healthcare in India.