In a major step toward advancing healthcare innovation, Pondicherry University has signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate of AYUSH and the Department of Drugs Control, Government of Puducherry. Under this partnership, the Department of Chemistry at Pondicherry University will serve as the nodal department. This strategic alliance aims to drive collaborative research on drug discovery, academic exchange, and innovation in areas including pharmaceuticals, traditional medicine (AYUSH), and regulatory science.
The MoU was formalized during a ceremony attended by senior officials, faculty members, and dignitaries from all participating organisations and industries.
“This partnership represents a vital synergy between academic excellence and regulatory expertise,” said Prof. P. Prakash Babu, Vice-Chancellor of Pondicherry University. “It will enable our faculty and students to contribute to high-impact projects focused on the nation’s evolving healthcare needs, particularly in Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH). Together, we aim to develop innovative, scalable healthcare solutions with national and global relevance.”
The Directorate of AYUSH, Puducherry, brings deep expertise in traditional systems of medicine. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. R. Sridharan, Director of AYUSH and CEO of the State Medicinal Plants Board, said, “This collaboration bridges the gap between laboratory research and real-world application. By combining our regulatory infrastructure and facilities with the university’s academic and research strengths, we can fast-track the development of effective and meaningful healthcare innovations.”
The Department of Drugs Control, which oversees the regulation of drugs and cosmetics in the Union Territory, also plays a pivotal role in the partnership. Dr. E. Anandakirouchenane, Controlling and Licensing Authority, noted, “This MoU marks a significant milestone in fostering innovation within the AYUSH domain. It underscores our commitment to ensuring the availability of safe, effective, and high-quality medicinal products.”
Speaking on the significance of the partnership, Prof. S. Victor Anandkumar, Dean of International Relations, said, “This three-way initiative involving academia, industry and the government opens up new avenues for collaborative research, training and policy impact in pharmaceutical and health care sectors.”
Prof. C. Sivasankar, Head, Department of Chemistry and MoU Coordinator, added, “This partnership is the culmination of a year-long dialogue and strategic planning. It establishes a structured, long-term platform for continuous collaboration between our academic community and government agencies. This MoU will result in a fruitful outcome.” Prof. Bala Manimaran, from the Department of Chemistry, delivered a vote of thanks at and of the meeting.
The signing of this MoU signifies a forward-looking approach to integrating academic research with regulatory and industry frameworks. The collaboration is expected to deliver long-term benefits to the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, both in India and beyond.