DSIR-CRTDH on Affordable Healthcare at IIT Kharagpur enters sustainable phase, strengthens lab-to-market translation and last-mile healthcare delivery
The Sustainable Phase of the Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH) on Affordable Healthcare at IIT Kharagpur was inaugurated by Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi, Secretary, DSIR, and DG, CSIR. Originally established in 2019 under the DSIR Scheme, the Hub has completed its initial grant-supported phase and transitioned into a self-sustaining national facility. Operating from a 5,000-square-foot facility, the Hub supports MSMEs, startups, and innovators with infrastructure, technical expertise, and technology transfers for affordable healthcare.
Why It Matters
This press release is relevant for competitive exam candidates tracking science and technology initiatives, government schemes, and indigenous medical technology developments in India.
In Simple Words
The Common Research and Technology Development Hub (CRTDH) on Affordable Healthcare at IIT Kharagpur has entered a sustainable phase. Launched in 2019 by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), the hub has successfully finished its grant-supported period and now operates independently through user fees, industry sponsorships, and translational partnerships.
The 5,000-square-foot facility provides infrastructure and technical expertise to MSMEs, startups, and innovators. It has facilitated over 20 technology transfers and deployed trained rural health workers to provide diagnostic and screening services in remote regions like the Sundarbans and Birbhum.
Key Points
- The Sustainable Phase of the CRTDH on Affordable Healthcare at IIT Kharagpur was inaugurated by Dr. (Mrs.) N. Kalaiselvi.
- The Hub was originally established in 2019 under the CRTDH Scheme of DSIR, Ministry of Science and Technology.
- It operates as a self-sustaining national facility funded through user fees, industry sponsorships, and translational partnerships.
- The facility spans 5,000 square feet and supports MSMEs, startups, innovators, and other stakeholders.
- The CRTDH has facilitated over 20 technology transfers, with many already commercialised.
- Fifteen frontline health workers trained under the Hub's skilling programmes operate rural health units in remote villages like the Sundarbans and Birbhum.
- The event was organised as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of IIT Kharagpur.
- Prof. Suman Chakraborty serves as the Director of IIT Kharagpur and Principal Investigator of the CRTDH.
Exam Angle
A. 2019
Source: Press Information Bureau