In a significant step towards enhancing innovation in medical electronics and healthcare technology, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, and the Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for collaborative research in medical device development. The MoU was formalized on the 32nd Foundation Day of AIIMS' Department of NMR.
The partnership will focus on developing advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) systems. It encompasses areas such as clinical validation of the indigenous 1.5 Tesla MRI system developed by SAMEER, collaborative research in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) for image enhancement, and the development of subsystems for high and low-field MRI scanners. Additionally, the collaboration will work on creating RF subsystems for high-field animal MRI scanners, contributing to the nation’s self-reliance in medical imaging technology.
Under the Indigenous Magnetic Resonance Imaging (IMRI) National Mission, spearheaded by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) with SAMEER as the nodal agency, significant progress has been made in developing and testing critical subsystems of the 1.5 Tesla MRI. Components such as the RF Power Amplifier, T/R switch, spectrometer, coils, and control units have been integrated with a procured magnet, with successful animal trials completed. Furthermore, the indigenous development of a 1.5 Tesla magnet, including superconducting components and cryogenic systems, is in its final stages.
During the signing ceremony, AIIMS Director Dr. M. Srinivas emphasized the importance of collaboration between clinicians and scientists to drive the development of innovative medical devices. Additional Secretary of MeitY, Shri Abhishek Singh, highlighted the role of such partnerships in building a robust medical device ecosystem in India, while Sunita Verma, Group Coordinator (R&D) at MeitY, stressed the need for indigenous solutions to address both domestic and global healthcare demands.
SAMEER Director General Dr. P.H. Rao provided insights into the institution's research initiatives, particularly advancements in MRI, LINAC, and X-ray-based blood irradiators. He reiterated the importance of clinical inputs in the successful development of medical devices.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Shri Abhishek Singh, Smt. Sunita Verma, Shri Rajesh Harsh, Programme Director at SAMEER, and Prof. Rama Jayasundar, Head of the Department of NMR at AIIMS. This collaboration marks a major milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in MRI technology and other medical innovations.