Brain Mapping Breakthrough: PM Modi Spotlights IIT Madras Effort
Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his Sunday address in the 139th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' to draw attention to scientific innovation and compassion. Among the topics he covered was a significant advance in brain research, which he presented as a source of national pride.
PM Modi opened by recounting his recent trip to Chennai in October. He said the visit gave him the chance to meet a number of scientists, researchers and promising young minds. He described their work as an encouraging sign that young people are contributing to fields with the power to shape the future of humanity.
The Prime Minister then spoke about the brain research sector. He said he had inaugurated the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre at IIT Madras, which he described as an important step for the country.
He explained that the centre has built a brain imaging platform considered a model for the world. Through this platform, high-resolution digital three-dimensional pictures of the human brain are being generated. The aim is to conduct a detailed study of 100 human brains through three-dimensional mapping in the coming period. PM Modi called it a mission unlike any other in the world. He added that the Param Shakti supercomputer is being used for this demanding work.
According to the Prime Minister, the industry worked closely with the government to help build the brain centre. Many former students of IITs and academic experts are also part of the research initiative.
He emphasised that despite major scientific progress, the human brain continues to be a great puzzle. Alzheimer's and dementia are among the illnesses that still have no firm cure. He said that a deeper understanding of how the brain functions will open new avenues for healthcare in the future.
He further stated that the data linked to these 100 human brains will later be provided as open source. This step is intended to help researchers worldwide across a range of disciplines.
PM Modi also highlighted the role of organ donation in advanced research. He observed that individuals who donate their organs after death save lives and simultaneously advance scientific knowledge.
To make his point, he referred to Shivani from Narmadapuram in Madhya Pradesh. He said Shivani had died in a road accident, leaving her family in deep distress. Even in such a painful situation, the family chose to donate her organs in a remarkable act of generosity.
The Prime Minister said the decision by Shivani's family conveyed an important message to society as a whole. A small step toward humanity, he said, can bring joy back to another household and also give meaningful support to research.