Pioneering India's Path in Rare Disease Care: A Call for Indigenous Innovation

India should develop a unique model emphasizing resource optimization and indigenous innovation for rare disease care, instead of just relying on Western frameworks, as suggested by ICMR chief Dr. Rajiv Bahl. Focus on population-based strategies, digital technologies, and affordable domestic treatments is essential for sustainable advancement.

India must create its own strategy to improve rare disease care through resource optimization and local innovation rather than relying on Western models, according to Dr. Rajiv Bahl, the ICMR chief.

Speaking at a national conference organized by the Union Health Ministry, Bahl emphasized a contextual approach for effective treatment and detection. He pointed out India's potential to utilize population-based strategies, preventive methods, and digital technologies like AI to enhance outreach and early diagnosis.

Financial frameworks now support up to Rs 50 lakh per patient, marking progress from the 1990s when rare diseases were virtually untreatable. The conference aims to generate innovative ideas and strengthen the national response, as highlighted by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava.