The inauguration of an international conference at the Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU) in New Delhi was a significant event. The event, themed "Translational Research and Innovation in Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Technology," seeks to connect academia and industry, promoting collaboration to drive advancements in healthcare. Organised in collaboration with the Innovation and Incubation Foundation, the two-day conference has drawn delegates from around the world, highlighting DPSRU's increasing significance in the fields of pharmaceutical research and innovation.

In his opening address, the university Vice-Chancellor, Professor Prof. Ravichandiran V., highlighted the importance of translational research. "The objective of this event is to guarantee that our research transcends mere documentation and evolves into healthcare solutions that are both affordable and accessible," he stated. The event comprises several sessions focused on pharmaceutical technology, digital health, and sustainable healthcare systems, providing students and researchers a significant opportunity to engage in idea exchange with industry leaders and global experts.

Dr. Manish Diwan, an alumnus of DPSRU and the mission director of the "Make in India" biotech sector, presented insights to the audience, emphasizing India's increasing capabilities in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.  India has transitioned from being a passive contributor to establishing itself as a global leader in the development of vaccines and medicines. He noted that this conference underscores our dedication to innovation and collaboration.

The conference aims to connect academic research with practical industrial applications. The university's Incubation Foundation, initially a modest initiative, has successfully secured substantial funding for startups and facilitated the creation of commercially viable products.

Professor Harvinder Popli, Director of the Innovation and Incubation Foundation, remarked that this conference represents a significant achievement for DPSRU. "Our graduates have expanded their roles beyond academic pursuits and are now addressing the unmet medical needs within the global healthcare industry." 

“We aim to motivate a greater number of students to engage in entrepreneurial ventures and tackle significant healthcare issues through these events,” she added.

The event includes more than 50 speakers from both national and international backgrounds, comprising distinguished researchers, industry experts, and policymakers. Furthermore, students are engaging in poster presentations, showcasing their creative concepts in fields including nanotechnology, precision medicine, and digital health solutions.

The pharmaceutical sector in India has experienced a notable evolution, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country's export of vaccines and medicines illustrates its capacity to adhere to rigorous quality standards on a global scale. The conference highlights the country's capacity to position itself as a frontrunner in biotech and pharmaceutical research.

Acknowledging DPSRU's initiatives Dr. Pankaj Aggarwal, project director from Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, said, "The growth of DPSRU is noteworthy." The university has evolved from accommodating a few hundred students to promoting innovation on a global scale, establishing itself as a benchmark for academic excellence.

Students participating in the conference are eager to use the opportunities presented by international universities and industry partners. "This presents a unique opportunity for our group," stated one student presenter. "We have the opportunity to communicate our concepts directly with industry specialists and gain insights on transforming our research into effective solutions."

The conference highlighted the accomplishments of startups incubated at DPSRU, with several having secured over ₹10 crore in funding and effectively launched their products. The purpose of sharing these stories is to encourage young individuals to embrace risk-taking and foster innovation.

Delegates characterized the conference as a convergence of diverse ideas, emphasizing the need for ongoing collaboration to address global healthcare challenges. In discussing future prospects, Prof. Ravichandiran stated, "With ongoing support from our faculty, industry partners, and government, DPSRU intends to establish benchmarks in pharmaceutical innovation."

As the event progresses, panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions will offer attendees deeper understanding of emerging trends and technologies. The conference highlights the necessity for collaboration between academia and industry to effectively tackle unmet medical needs and foster the development of a healthier, sustainable world.