The KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KAHER) boasts a distinguished legacy within Karnataka’s educational landscape, firmly anchored in the commitment to delivering high-quality education and fostering research, as articulated by the Minister for Large and Medium Industries, MB Patil.

During the inauguration of the MedTech Hackathon-2024, hosted by the KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research (KAHER) Incubation and Innovation Center in Belagavi on August 30, 2024, he emphasized that KLE will leverage its extensive network of educational institutions nationwide. This initiative is poised to make substantial contributions to the advancement of the health and technology sectors. KLE is recognized as a frontrunner in biomedical engineering research, equipped with cutting-edge research facilities. He noted that a robust ecosystem has been established, characterized by innovation and collaboration with various organizations.

Karnataka is recognized for its thriving ecosystem in medical technology, supported by a comprehensive network of research institutions, startups, and healthcare providers. The state serves as a focal point for development, with policies and initiatives that encourage innovation and provide world-class resources for startups and researchers. The healthcare and medtech sectors in Karnataka are dynamic and rapidly evolving, significantly impacting India’s medical landscape, accounting for approximately 10% of the total production in the medical and dental equipment sector. He elaborated that the state contributes 25% of this sector and serves as the manufacturing and supply hub for over 350 medical devices.

With a steady influx of skilled professionals graduating from engineering and medical colleges in Karnataka, medical technology companies are readily acquiring the talent necessary for their operations. The region is a hub for the manufacturing of medical IT, PCR machines, cardiac stents, insulin pens, and various other devices. Karnataka is also home to numerous medtech startups innovating in medical devices, diagnostics, digital health, and biotechnology.

Let us embrace a culture of innovation and collaboration. By leveraging the capabilities of technology and research, we can propel the future of medical advancements and enhance the quality of life for individuals. There is optimism that Karnataka can emerge as a global frontrunner in the field of medtech innovation.

Minister MB Patil said that The comprehensive plan for the establishment of a start-up park in Belagavi or Hubli will be completed, with construction set to commence within three months. This region is home to numerous medical and engineering colleges, which should be utilized to foster the growth of medical industries. He emphasized the need for a greater focus on research and the pursuit of self-sufficiency, recalling the significant contributions made by the rulers of Mysore to industrial development.

Dr. Prabhakar Kore, Executive Chairman of KLE and Chancellor of Cairo, highlighted the importance of research and development across various sectors. Support and guidance are currently being provided to facilitate the establishment of businesses in medical technology through incubation initiatives. Consequently, he urged the youth to be motivated to embark on entrepreneurial ventures.

Dr. Nikhila Agarwala, Managing Director of Delhi IIT, remarked that the concept of startups is not new in the context of a transforming India, although it has gained momentum since 2016. There are currently 131 unicorns in India, and the expectation is that this will lead to the emergence of a thousand unicorns and a million startups. A significant portion of the population, approximately 80%, seeks employment abroad. India possesses the potential to cultivate numerous innovators akin to Bill Gates, and it is crucial for the youth to recognize this potential. Currently, 80% of medical equipment in India is imported, with 95% of the equipment at airports being medical in nature. To address this dependency, he asserted the necessity for the advancement of medical technology and industries.

Belagavi boasts excellent connectivity and a skilled workforce, and we are prepared to offer all necessary guidance and support in this location. It was proposed that a minimum of 20 doctors should step forward to pursue entrepreneurial ventures in the upcoming year.

Dr. Nithin Gangane, Vice Chancellor of KAHER, stated that comprehensive assistance will be extended for research and development initiatives. In just one year, over 100 patents have already been secured. He emphasized that advancements in medical science will be prioritized in the near future. Contributions were also made by Indian government scientist Dr. Aravindakumar and SIDBI Senior General Manager Sathyaprakash Singh