Vice-President Radhakrishnan Calls for Nobel-Winning Medical Research at NTR University

Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan has urged medical students to focus on research and develop solutions to health challenges facing humanity across the world. Expressing his aspiration to see a student from Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences win a Nobel Prize, he called for greater scientific innovation and the use of technology to improve human welfare.

Addressing the university’s 40th anniversary (Ruby Jubilee) celebrations in Vijayawada, Radhakrishnan said medical professionals must combine scientific knowledge with compassion and ethical responsibility. He stressed that technological advancements should improve patient care without compromising privacy, safety or the human connection between doctors and patients.

Recalling former Chief Minister Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR) and his generosity towards Chennai in addressing drinking water needs, the Vice-President praised the university’s contribution to medical education in Andhra Pradesh. He also called for greater public awareness about drug abuse.

Highlighting the expansion of medical education under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past 12 years, Radhakrishnan said the number of medical colleges had increased from 387 in 2014 to 846. MBBS seats had risen from 51,000 to more than 1.4 lakh, while postgraduate medical seats had crossed 86,000. India now has over 2.25 lakh undergraduate and postgraduate medical seats combined, he added.

University Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Chandrasekhar said the institution had allocated approximately Rs. 13 crore for medical research. It has introduced postdoctoral fellowships in specialised areas, including laparoscopic surgery, reproductive medicine, fetal medicine and paediatric critical care. Certificate courses in research methodology, biostatistics and infection control are also being offered, with a Quantum Biology course planned.

Chandrasekhar urged the state government to establish a dedicated medical academy to strengthen doctors’ training, professional skills and research. He proposed amending the university Act to provide a legal framework for the institution.

Dr. M.K. Ramesh, Director of the National Medical Commission’s Medical Assessment and Rating Board, called for medical education that balances technology with empathy and ethical values. He also highlighted India’s growing medical tourism potential, supported by comparatively affordable treatment and professional expertise.

Governor Justice S. Abdul Nazeer, Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy and MP Keshineni Sivanath attended the event.

Later, the Vice-President visited Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirumala, where he offered prayers after visiting the Sri Varahaswamy Temple. He received Vedic blessings and sacred offerings before visiting the Sri Bedi Anjaneya Swamy Temple.