The Centre on Wednesday launched the IIT-Delhi developed low-cost coronavirus testing kit worth Rs 650 approximately. The test kit, Corosure, has been touted as the most affordable probe-free RT-PCR diagnostic kit available whose test results would be available in three hours and the sensitivity of the tests are comparable to kits that are currently available and has been approved by the ICMR.
HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank and HRD Minister of State Sanjay Dhotre took to twitter to launch the affordable testing kit.
Newtech Medical will produce the affordable coronavirus testing kit which is cheaper than the usual RT-PCR kits because it does not require the “probe” components that are imported.
On the occasion, Dhotre said amid the coronavirus crisis, when widespread testing is most needed, this very low-cost diagnostic kit is a great feat that the IIT-Delhi has achieved in such a short period.
“Innovation and entrepreneurship are complimentary to each other, and are also most crucial for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. IITs have very robustly nurtured these two. Even in schools across the country, climate for innovation and new technology is being created very actively,” Dhotre said.
He also said the country’s youth have a lot of passion and potential for innovation and entrepreneurship. They only need to be provided right climate, resources and motivation. IITs have done a great job in this sphere, Dhotre said.
“This IIT Delhi technology should change the paradigm of Covid testing in the country, both in terms of scale and cost. This product, approved by the ICMR and the DCGI, is being launched tomorrow. Two million tests at an unbeatable price,” said IIT Delhi Director Ramgopal Rao on Tuesday.
“The sensitivity of this in-house assay is comparable to that of commercially available kits,” said Professor Vivekanandan Perumal, lead member of the team.