The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has kicked off the Longevity India Initiative, aiming to delve into aging research and enhance the quality of life for older individuals.
This initiative, launched at an event held at the Institute, gathers experts from various fields to tackle the complexities of aging. It aims to extend the period of healthy living, known as ‘healthspan,’ through innovative research and technology.
Prashanth Prakash, Founding Partner of Accel India, emphasized the importance of challenging the notion that aging is inevitable. He stressed the need to consider various factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and environment, especially in India’s diverse demographic landscape.
With India’s elderly population projected to grow significantly, collaboration between industry and academia is crucial. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon, highlighted the need for such collaboration to provide accessible geriatric healthcare and support aging populations.
Govindan Rangarajan, Director of IISc, underlined the urgency of bringing together stakeholders from academia, healthcare, and industry to address aging challenges effectively.
The initiative includes a large-scale clinical study involving multiple departments at IISc, clinicians, industry partners, and civil society. It aims to identify early disease indicators, investigate aging biomarkers, and develop new therapeutics and technologies for healthy aging.
Partnerships with institutions like MS Ramaiah Hospital and Bangalore Medical College & Research Institute, along with industry support from companies like Beckman Coulter and Healthians, will facilitate the initiative’s research efforts.
Deepak Saini, Convener of the Longevity India Initiative, stressed the importance of long-term investment and support for the field of longevity research.
The launch event featured speeches and discussions outlining the vision, goals, and plans of the initiative, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to address aging-related challenges effectively.
