Nanotech, AI, and robotics shaping healthcare as much as space exploration: ISRO chief

New Delhi- Emerging technologies like nanotechnology, artificial intelligence (AI), and robotics are revolutionizing healthcare in the same way they are transforming space exploration, said ISRO chairman Dr. V. Narayanan.

Addressing the IADR Asia Pacific Regional & 35th ISDR Annual Conference 2025 in New Delhi, Narayanan highlighted ISRO’s advancements in space technology while underscoring India’s growing global stature and the value of scientific integration.

“India has firmly established itself on the world map. Chandrayaan made us the only nation to achieve a successful soft landing. Engineering and medicine cannot operate in isolation,” he said.

“Nanotechnology, AI, and robotics are reshaping healthcare just as they are redefining space exploration,” he added.

Narayanan, who is also Chairman of the Space Commission and Secretary of the Department of Space, shared that reading medical literature is a personal hobby and called for stronger collaboration between ISRO and medical institutes to accelerate innovation.

“Reading medical books has always been my passion, and I strongly believe that partnerships between ISRO and medical institutions will drive innovation forward,” he noted.

He also praised advancements in medical science for significantly improving human longevity.

“India’s literacy rate has now reached 79 percent, and the average healthy lifespan has risen thanks to medical progress. We’ve made remarkable strides across sectors,” Narayanan added.

At the same event, Prof. Abhijat Sheth, Chairman of the National Medical Commission, stressed the importance of reinforcing medical education.

“Two key areas often neglected in medical training are clinical research and communication. These should be core elements of the basic curriculum,” Sheth said.

“Introducing them early will help foster a culture of research, innovation, and discovery,” he added.

The three-day conference brought together more than 600 delegates, including 150 international participants from 20 countries.

With inputs from IANS