GITAM Conducts BioMed Bhārat Hackathon for a Self-Reliant India

The Innovation of a non-invasive monitoring device for neonates born to diabetic mothers emerged winner. They were awarded a cash prize of INR 1,00,000.

Vizag, March 2024: Against the backdrop of the COVID-19 crisis, which highlighted the critical shortage of medical equipment such as ventilators, GITAM (Deemed to be University) recently concluded the monumental ‘BioMed Bhārat’ Hackathon. This event, held in synergy with GITAM School of Technology (GST), GITAM Institute of Medical Science and Research (GIMSR), GITAM School of Science (GSS), and GITAM Venture Development Centre (VDC), underscored the urgent need for innovation in biomedical devices and the transformative power of multidisciplinary collaboration.

The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerability of healthcare systems worldwide, accentuating the importance of developing cutting-edge medical technologies. Through the BioMed Bhārat Hackathon, GITAM brought together engineering, medical science, dental, and basic science students to tackle critical healthcare challenges and pave the way for a self-reliant India.

Spanning seven stages, the hackathon provided a platform for participants to address pressing healthcare issues, including the development of non-invasive monitoring devices and portable diagnostic tools. The event witnessed students from diverse disciplines working in tandem, showcasing their technical prowess and collaborative spirit to drive innovation in healthcare.

Prof. Vijaya Sekhar Chellaboina, Senior Professor at GITAM’s Mechanical Department, emphasised the university’s commitment to innovation and collaboration. He highlighted the significance of uniting engineers and medical professionals to address pressing healthcare challenges and praised the active engagement of undergraduate students in crafting innovative device solutions.

Prof. Ravi Kishore Bhagavatula, Sr. Director of Research and Innovation, underscored GITAM’s unique position to foster multidisciplinary research and innovation in biomedical devices. He emphasised the university’s role in networking opportunities for students and researchers nationwide to collaborate and contribute to building a self-reliant India.

The Grand Finale of the BioMed Bhārat Hackathon saw participation from teams across the country, with innovative solutions being developed to address critical healthcare challenges. Team Starks from Bannari Amman Institute of Technology emerged as the winners, showcasing their ingenuity in developing a non-invasive monitoring device for neonates born to diabetic mothers. They were awarded a cash prize of INR 1,00,000.

Through initiatives like SmartIdeathon, Biomed Bharat, Techathon, Code Hackathon, and clubs like CODEX, GITAM fosters future-ready citizens by providing them with opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and contribute to the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.