IIT Delhi and AIIMS Delhi Join Forces to Launch ₹330 Crore Centre of Excellence for AI in Healthcare
Backed by the Ministry of Education, the ambitious AI-CoE project aims to revolutionize healthcare delivery, accessibility, and research through indigenous AI-driven solutions
In a landmark move towards advancing healthcare innovation in India, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (AI-CoE). The collaboration is being supported by a substantial grant of ₹330 crore from the Ministry of Education, as part of its "Make AI in India, Make AI Work for India" initiative.
The MoU was formalized in a ceremonial event held at IIT Delhi, with Prof. M Srinivas, Director of AIIMS Delhi, and Prof. Rangan Banerjee, Director of IIT Delhi, representing the two premier institutions. This Centre of Excellence will act as the central body for the development and implementation of AI-based solutions aimed at improving public health and supporting key national health programmes.
A Vision for Transformative Healthcare
Speaking at the event, Prof. M Srinivas emphasized the magnitude of the collaboration, stating, "This MoU marks the beginning of transformative collaborative research with the potential to reshape healthcare across the country." The center is expected to significantly bolster the quality and reach of healthcare services, especially for marginalized and underserved communities.
Echoing a similar sentiment, Prof. Rangan Banerjee remarked, "A partnership between AIIMS and IIT Delhi can drive innovation in affordable healthcare. We are proud to shape this national centre of excellence and look forward to a measurable impact on Indian lives."
Leading the Innovation from Both Ends
The ambitious AI-CoE project will be jointly led by two experienced professionals in the field. From AIIMS Delhi, Dr. Krithika Rangarajan will serve as the Chief Project Manager. Highlighting the importance of patient-centered innovation, she said, "As we explore this dynamic intersection of healthcare and technology, our focus remains clear—placing patients at the center and building systems that benefit every citizen."
From IIT Delhi, Prof. Chetan Arora will take charge as the Chief Project Manager. Sharing his vision, Prof. Arora stated, "The CoE will function as a key national and global research hub, leveraging indigenous AI solutions to transform public health. We aim to enhance healthcare delivery, skill development, and accessibility for underserved populations."
He added that the initiative represents a continuation of the long-standing collaborative history between IIT Delhi and AIIMS Delhi. "Through the AI-CoE, we hope to establish a new benchmark for integrating healthcare with AI research, not just in India but around the world."
Empowering National Health Programmes
One of the core goals of the AI-CoE is to support and empower various national health initiatives. By utilizing advanced AI algorithms and machine learning models, the center aims to address critical healthcare challenges, from diagnostics and treatment planning to public health surveillance and resource allocation.
The center will also function as a training ground for the next generation of AI and healthcare professionals. Plans are in place to conduct interdisciplinary research, organize training workshops, and develop curriculum modules that can be adopted across institutions in India.
Global Impact with a Local Focus
While the AI-CoE is designed to be a national hub, it also aspires to make a mark globally. The focus on creating indigenous AI solutions tailored to the unique healthcare landscape of India sets it apart from other similar initiatives worldwide. This alignment with local needs ensures that the innovations produced are not only cutting-edge but also practical and scalable across diverse settings.
Future Outlook
The Ministry of Education's decision to fund the AI-CoE underscores the government’s strong commitment to leveraging technology for public good. With AIIMS Delhi's medical expertise and IIT Delhi's technological prowess, the collaboration is poised to redefine the standards of healthcare innovation in India.
As the Centre of Excellence takes shape in the coming months, stakeholders from both academia and the healthcare industry will closely watch its progress. From improving diagnosis and treatment pathways to bridging the urban-rural healthcare divide, the AI-CoE is expected to bring tangible change.
This partnership stands as a powerful example of how interdisciplinary collaboration, visionary funding, and strategic planning can converge to build a healthier, more equitable future for all citizens of India.
