ICMR launches 'First in the World Challenge' to fund breakthrough health innovations

The Indian Council of Medical Research has launched its 'First in the World Challenge', seeking researchers to develop breakthrough innovations in healthcare that have not been conceived, tested or attempted globally. The initiative offers funding of up to Rs 8 crore per project, scaled according to the advancement level of the proposed innovation.

The challenge aims to encourage scientists to pursue transformative research in vaccines, drugs, therapeutics, diagnostics and other health technologies. The move reflects India's ambition to make significant contributions to global healthcare following its recent achievements in space exploration.