DHR-ICMR celebrates 80th Independence Day with renewed commitment to health research, medical innovation and nation-building

The Department of Health Research (DHR) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) marked India’s 80th Independence Day on 15 August 2026 at ICMR’s V. Ramalingaswami Bhawan, New Delhi. Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary DHR and Director‑General ICMR, hoisted the national flag and highlighted the role of health research, innovation and indigenous health technologies in nation‑building and a self‑reliant healthcare system. The event included a prize distribution for essay‑writing and quiz competitions held earlier in the month, aimed at encouraging creativity and participation among DHR‑ICMR officials and staff. The celebrations concluded with a call for continued excellence in biomedical research and health‑technology innovation.