Puducherry: In a significant push towards advancing healthcare research and innovation, Pondicherry University on Monday signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Directorate of AYUSH and the Department of Drugs Control, Government of Puducherry.

The Department of Chemistry at Pondicherry University will serve as the nodal agency for the collaborative initiative, which aims to strengthen research and development in pharmaceuticals, AYUSH systems, and regulatory sciences.

The agreement also seeks to facilitate academic exchanges and innovation in drug discovery.

Speaking at the MoU signing event, Vice-Chancellor Prof. P. Prakash Babu said the partnership represents a “vital synergy between academic excellence and regulatory expertise.”

“It will enable our faculty and students to work on impactful projects that address the country's healthcare priorities, particularly in the AYUSH sectors — Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy,” he added.

Dr. R. Sridharan, Director of AYUSH and CEO of the State Medicinal Plants Board, welcomed the collaboration, stating that it bridges the gap between lab research and practical implementation. “By leveraging our regulatory infrastructure and the university's research capacity, we aim to accelerate healthcare innovation,” he said.

Dr. E. Anandakirouchenane, Controlling and Licensing Authority, Department of Drugs Control, described the agreement as a milestone that underscores the commitment to ensuring access to safe, effective, and quality medicinal products.

Prof. S. Victor Anandkumar, Dean of International Relations, highlighted that the three-way partnership would open new avenues for joint research, training, and policy impact. Prof. C. Sivasankar, Head of the Chemistry Department and MoU Coordinator, said the agreement follows a year-long planning process and sets the stage for long-term collaboration.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials, faculty members, and representatives from participating agencies. The vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Bala Manimaran of the Chemistry Department.

The MoU is expected to yield long-term benefits for India's pharmaceutical and traditional medicine sectors.