India’s First Indigenous 1.5 Tesla MRI Machine

 

 

 

Context:

India has successfully developed its first indigenous 1.5 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine.

 

 

Relevance:
GS-03 (Science and technology)

 

 

About the Indigenous MRI Machine:

  • It is developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with the other institutions and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
  • Implementing agency: The Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering and Research (SAMEER), Mumbai
  • Aim: To reduce reliance on imports and to improve India’s self-reliance in advanced medical equipment.

 

 

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

  • Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a noninvasive medical imaging test that produces detailed images of almost every internal structure in the human body, including the organs, bones, muscles and blood vessels.
  • Unlike X-rays that use ionising radiation, MRI scanners use a large magnet and radio waves to create images of the body.
  • MRI scans are essential for diagnosing various medical conditions, including brain disorders, joint injuries, and spinal cord abnormalities.

 

Significance of the Indigenous MRI Machine:

  • Aligns with Make in India to promote local manufacturing of high-end medical devices.
  • Usually MRI scanning is very expensive, making it less accessible for the poor. This indigenous MRI machine will make it more affordable in India, especially in rural and remote areas.
  • The move reduces reliance on imports, enhances healthcare infrastructure, and boosts India’s capability in cutting-edge medical technology.

 

Prelims Questions:

Consider the following statements:

  1. MRI scanners use ionising radiation to create images of the internal structure in the human body.
  2. 1.5 Tesla MRI Machine is India’s first indigenous MRI scanner.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

 

Answer:  (b) 2 only

Explanation:

  • MRI scanners use a large magnet and radio waves to create images of the body.
  •  X-rays use ionising radiation.

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