iDEX-DIO & AFMS Partner to Launch Medical Innovations & Research Advancement Program

The partnership aims to drive innovation and research in developing advanced medical technologies tailored for the Armed Forces.

Innovations for Defence Excellence-Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO), a leading initiative of the Ministry of Defence, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) to launch the Medical Innovations and Research Advancement (MIRA) program.

The partnership aims to drive innovation and research in developing advanced medical technologies tailored for the Armed Forces.

The initiative will kick off with the Defence India Start-up Challenge (DISC) edition MIRA, which focuses on addressing critical medical challenges faced by the military.

This collaboration will leverage the combined strengths and expertise of both iDEX and AFMS to foster advancements in medical technology.

Anurag Bajpai, Additional Secretary (Defence Production) & CEO, DIO emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to innovation across all areas of defense and security.

"This partnership with AFMS underscores our dedication to creating a robust healthcare ecosystem that not only addresses the current needs of the Armed Forces but also anticipates future challenges," he stated.

Highlighting the significance of this collaboration in enhancing the quality of medical care for the Armed Forces, Lt Gen Daljit Singh, said, "Through this partnership with iDEX, we aim to harness innovative capabilities to make substantial advancements in medical science and technology."

The MoU was signed on July 30, 2024, by Anurag Bajpai, Additional Secretary (Defence Production) & CEO, DIO, and Lt Gen Daljit Singh, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services.

About iDEX

Established by the DIO under the Department of Defence Production, iDEX has launched 11 editions of the DISC and recently introduced the Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX (ADITI) scheme.

This scheme promotes innovations in critical and strategic defense technologies.

In a short period, iDEX has successfully engaged over 400 start-ups and MSMEs, fostering a thriving community within the defense sector.

To date, it has facilitated the procurement of 37 items worth over Rs 2,000 crore, creating numerous job opportunities and contributing significantly to the development of the defense ecosystem.

By launching the MIRA program, iDEX aims to address specific medical needs and challenges faced by military personnel, ensuring that they receive the highest quality of medical care through the latest technologies.

This partnership is expected to result in the development and induction of novel medical technologies, enhancing the overall healthcare capabilities of the Armed Forces.