The School of Medical Research and Technology (SMRT) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has announced the launch of Hridyantra, a grand challenge-based programme to develop the world’s most advanced Artificial Heart or a Left Ventricular Assist device (LVAD).

The programme, in collaboration with the nation’s leading hospitals, would promote the vision of made in India for the world.

A team of innovators with relevant experience will be selected under the mentorship of a task force composed of industry experts.

The challenge to develop India’s first LVAD system will be open to basic sciences, medical and engineering graduates or graduates of any stream with relevant experience.

Selected candidates will receive a fellowship and a milestone based ownership in the commercial entity once the LVAD is successfully commercialized and launched.

The execution of this unique competition will commence with the deployment of a multi-disciplinary team of fellows who will undergo clinical immersion at Narayana Health Hospitals for understanding the clinical nuances associated with cardiac surgery. Upon completing their clinical immersion, the fellows will move to IIT Kanpur to begin the product development process under the project.