Biotech startups Tzar Labs, Epigeneres Biotechnology claim breakthrough in cancer detection
Indian scientists at Singapore-based molecular diagnostic startup Tzar Labs and Mumbai-based Epigeneres Biotechnology have claimed to have found a breakthrough in early detection and diagnosis of cancer via a novel blood test. According to the official statement, the companies have co-developed a novel blood test called HrC, which can help in determining whether cancer is absent, imminent, or present in a patient. It can also diagnose the stages of the disease.
Govt allows cash payment of over Rs 2 lakh for COVID-19 treatment at hospitals
The Income Tax Department has issued a notification allowing hospitals and nursing homes to accept cash payments of Rs 2 lakh and more for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), which frames policy for the department, issued the notification on Friday.
Swasth, ACT Grants procuring 50,000 oxygen concentrators, other medical supplies
Swasth Digital Health Foundation, along with ACT Grants, a social change movement of the Indian startup ecosystem, is procuring 50,000 Oxygen Concentrators (OC) and other medical supplies to aid the fight against COVID-19. The alliance has deployed 3,500 OCs (as of May 1), with an additional 10,000 expected to be deployed by May 8. It also confirmed the supply of a total of 35,000 concentrators, with a majority expected to be delivered by May 15.
US corporate sector continues sending COVID-19 help to India
The US corporate sector continues to send its assistance to India to help the country fight the second wave of COVID-19, which has been seeing more than 300,000 infected people daily, putting enormous pressure on the country’s hospitals reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. Thermo Fisher, with the help of United Airlines, on Saturday, sent the much-needed supplies to India to help expand the COVID-19 testing, the company said.
