GITAM (deemed to be a university) organized the ‘BioMed Bhārat’ Hackathon to address the shortage of medical equipment like ventilators during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event, in collaboration with various departments at GITAM, aimed to promote innovation in biomedical devices and highlight the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration.
The pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of healthcare systems globally, emphasizing the need for advanced medical technologies. Through the hackathon, GITAM brought together students from engineering, medical science, dental, and basic science backgrounds to tackle healthcare challenges and contribute to a self-reliant India.
The hackathon comprised seven stages where participants worked on developing non-invasive monitoring devices and portable diagnostic tools to address pressing healthcare issues. Students from different disciplines showcased their technical skills and teamwork to drive innovation in healthcare.
Professors at GITAM expressed their commitment to innovation and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of uniting engineers and medical professionals to solve healthcare challenges. They praised the active involvement of undergraduate students in creating innovative solutions.
The grand finale of the hackathon saw teams from across the country presenting innovative solutions for critical healthcare challenges. Team Starks from Bannari Amman Institute of Technology won the competition by developing a non-invasive monitoring device for neonates born to diabetic mothers and received a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000.
GITAM continues to promote collaboration and innovation through various initiatives like SmartIdeathon, Biomed Bharat, Techathon, Code Hackathon, and clubs like CODEX. These efforts aim to empower students to contribute to the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat by fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.