Launch of Global Health Innovation Fellowship by WIPO and DBT

Union Minister for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, launched the Global Health Innovation Fellowship, supported by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), aimed at nurturing medical technology startups and innovators, particularly among the youth. The program will be hosted at DBT Bio-design centers in various prestigious institutions, including IIT Delhi, AIIMS, IITB, Hinduja Hospital, and Nanavati Hospital.

Dr. Singh emphasized that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to address global health challenges through scientific solutions, fostering intellectual property, and enhancing public health. It encourages collaboration between institutions and provides a platform for young innovators to tackle global health issues.

WIPO has partnered with DBT to support four fellows in the DBT Bio-design Program, receiving applications from professionals worldwide. This initiative complements the efforts to scale up the Biodesign program in over 20 medical and technical institutions across India.

Dr. Singh highlighted the promising growth of India's Bio-Economy, with a target of contributing $150 billion to the $5 trillion economy vision. India's biotech startup ecosystem is rapidly expanding, with the number of startups expected to reach 10,000 by 2025. The DBT and WIPO partnership is recognized as a flagship initiative for promoting innovation and startups in India.

Mr. Daren Tang, Director General of WIPO, praised India's scientific prowess, citing the successful landing of Chandrayan-3 on the Moon's South Pole. He promised WIPO's support to help India become a global space technology hub and a model for South-South cooperation, especially in the areas of biotech fellows, startups, and innovation.

Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of the Department of Biotechnology, stated that this partnership will enhance the capacities of innovators to collaboratively address global health challenges and promote global cooperation.

The collaboration aims to leverage intellectual property, innovation, and medical technology to address local health challenges, fostering global partnerships and knowledge exchange among young professionals from diverse countries. This initiative aims to promote South-South cooperation and tackle global health challenges collaboratively.

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