AIMIL Signs MOU with Jiwaji University, Gwalior for Advance Research in Ayurveda

In a first, an ayurveda research institute has entered into an industry tie-up to develop new medicine formula using advance sciences like nano-technology, validations & resourcing natural drugs and market new remedies for hitherto incurable diseases at a two days Symposia organized on 18 & 19 January, 2019 at Jiwaji University campus, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

Taking a cue from successful industry tie-ups of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Madhya Pradesh government-funded Jiwaji University has signed an agreement with Delhi-based AIMIL Pharmaceuticals to study centuries-old ayurvedic formulations, standardise and authenticate them and use information about their potent ingredients for developing new medicines.

On the event, Mr. Sanchit Sharma, Executive Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals declares that we will pump in resources, like equipment and technology inputs, to help the university utilise its pool of qualified researchers to its optimal potential.

University vice-chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sangita Shukla thanked the Union Ayush ministry for promoting research in Ayurveda and said, “It is a win-win situation for both the Industry & Institutions, and all throughout globe such provisions of Industry Institutions Interface Projects (IIIP) have significant recognitions for IPR as well as funding from eminent funding institutions. The arrangement will open new avenues for our faculty and students while giving AIMIL access to latest research feedback.” 

Former Secretary of Health, Govt. of India & Former Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Dr. V.M. Katoch, who was present at the event to sign the agreement, lauded the improved co-ordination between Ayurvedic research institutes and industry. Dr. Katoch in his speech to audience said that “Ayurveda is the key to treating some of the incurable diseases. If old formulations are subjected to modern research in integrated scientific pattern, we will surely be able to develop world-class medicines with negligible but known side effects.”

Highlighting the gains from tie-ups between researchers and industry, he further cited the example of DRDO developed formulation Lukoskin to treat white skin spots or vitiligo and CSIR-developed diabetes formulation called BGR-34. The Union government has tied-up with AIMIL for marketing the two drugs which have even made a foray into all throughout markets.

Dr. Anil Sharma, Vice President, AIMIL Pharmaceuticals India Ltd. has also been invited as Special Guest for invited talk, who gave a presentation on “Ayurveda - An Ancient & Innovative Sciences Opening Vistas in Researches in Modern Aspects” with the objectives to look into advance research to regain healthy India.

In addition, several eminent academicians like Dr Laxman Singh from BHU, Dr P Hemant Kumar from National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, Dr Santosh Bhattad from All India Institute of Ayurveda, Delhi, Renowned Ayurvedist Dr M R Uniyal and academicians from A&U Tibbia College, Delhi, Ch. Brahm Prakash Charak Sansthan, Delhi, Dr Mahesh Sharma, Principal, Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Gwalior, Prof R S Tomar & Prof Nagappa from Amity University, Gwalior and many more have given their benign presentation at the event. The event was organized under the convenorship of Prof. K K Sijoria former Principal, A & U Tibbia College & presently advisor to JiwaJi University and Professor G B K Prasad, HOD Biotechnology department, Jiwaji University and was attended by about 300 delegates comprising faculty, interns & students of Ayurveda colleges & practicing professionals. The University was ranked Grade A by NAAC and also recognize as “Centre of Translational Research” and also progressing to the “Centre of Excellence” from government recognized agencies. The impact of event was further boosted on day two during the clinical workshop.

With an aim to benefit the patients suffering from non-communicable diseases like diabetes, the Indian Government has launched a pilot project integrating allopathic and traditional medicines in its hospitals, setting aside doubts raised by allopathic doctors over efficacy of the alternative drugs and similar activities are going on in university by establishing basic health academic research department, Panchakarma Unit and Diabetes Camps in various rural areas of the state.

The ministry has also roped in scientific institutes such as IIT-Bombay and All India Institute of Medical Sciences for conducting research to counter allegations that Ayurvedic medicines are not effective.