New Delhi | India is accelerating its preparedness for future pandemics through advances in rapid diagnostics, CRISPR-based technologies, and indigenous healthcare innovation. At the forefront of this effort is Dr Shyam Sundar Nandi, Scientist-E and Deputy Director at the ICMR-National Institute of Virology, who has been recognised with the Phoenix Award at HealthAIcon 2026 for his contributions to molecular virology and public health diagnostics.
Phoenix Award Recognises Breakthrough Work in Diagnostic Innovation
Dr Nandi received the Phoenix Award at HealthAIcon 2026, an event celebrating major contributions in healthcare and medical research. The award was presented in New Delhi by senior dignitaries including Dr Abhijat Sheth, Chairperson of the National Medical Commission and President of NBEMS, along with Dr Anil Kohli and Dr Sanghamitra Pati of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
Focus on CRISPR, RT-LAMP and Rapid Diagnostic Platforms
Dr Nandi’s research focuses on developing fast, affordable and portable diagnostic tools using CRISPR-based systems, RT-LAMP technology, genome engineering and point-of-care platforms. These innovations are designed to reduce reliance on advanced laboratory infrastructure and improve access to diagnostics in resource-limited settings.
His work has contributed to detection and surveillance tools for diseases including COVID-19, Nipah virus, Mpox (Monkeypox), diphtheria, enteroviruses and silicosis-related conditions.
COVID-19 Exposed Gaps in India’s Diagnostic System
Reflecting on the pandemic, Dr Nandi highlighted gaps in India’s diagnostic ecosystem, including limited decentralised testing capacity, dependence on imported components, uneven laboratory infrastructure and challenges in real-time surveillance. He emphasised the need for multiplex, portable and domestically manufactured diagnostic platforms.
RT-LAMP vs RT-PCR: Faster and Field-Friendly Testing
Explaining diagnostic methods, Dr Nandi noted that RT-LAMP operates at a constant temperature, unlike RT-PCR which requires thermal cycling. This makes RT-LAMP faster, simpler and more suitable for field deployment, especially in rural and low-resource settings.
CRISPR-Engineered Cell Lines and Next-Gen Biosensors
One of his key innovations includes CRISPR-engineered cell lines that function as “living biosensors.” These systems can detect specific biological signals and enhance viral research capacity. His work has also improved viral titers significantly, strengthening laboratory research and diagnostic development.
Strengthening India’s Pandemic Preparedness
Dr Nandi believes India is better prepared today than during the COVID-19 outbreak, with improved genomic surveillance, expanded testing capacity, stronger domestic manufacturing and digital health integration. However, he stressed the need for further decentralisation and faster translation of research into deployable technologies.
Future Threats and Research Priorities
He identified emerging zoonotic viruses, antimicrobial resistance and rapidly mutating pathogens as major global concerns. His team is currently developing CRISPRDx systems, RT-LAMP and SELEX-based platforms, and microfluidics-enabled diagnostic kits targeting high-risk pathogens such as Nipah, Zika, Ebola and Mpox.
Vision for Indigenous Healthcare Innovation
Dr Nandi emphasised that indigenous diagnostic technologies are essential for reducing import dependence and strengthening supply chain resilience during health emergencies. He highlighted India’s growing capacity to develop affordable, scalable and locally manufactured diagnostic solutions.
Advice for Young Scientists
Encouraging young researchers, Dr Nandi advised building strong scientific fundamentals, embracing interdisciplinary research, maintaining laboratory skills and focusing on real-world healthcare challenges. He emphasised that impactful innovation comes from combining scientific rigor with societal need.
