CONTEXT:

• An MoU for supporting joint collaborative research programmes in the area of Cancer was signed on 22 May 2019.
• It was signed between the Department of Biotechnology and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
• This MoU shall help strengthen the various initiatives specifically for cancer.

BACKGROUND:

• The MoU was signed between Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Cancer Research UK (CRUK) for India-UK Cancer Research Initiative for collaboration in cancer research for the next five years.
• Under it, both CRUK and DBT will invest 5 million pounds each in this five-year pilot project and seek further investment from other potential funding partners.
• India-UK Cancer Research Initiative will identify core set of research challenges that address issues of affordability, prevention and care of cancer patients by bringing together leading Indian and UK experts in clinical research, demographic research, new technologies and physical sciences.
• The initiative will provide funding to develop new research alliances and undertake impactful research to enable significant progress against cancer outcomes It will also provide catalysing platform for scientists and researchers in India and UK to co-create solutions for affordable cancer care that improve cancer outcomes around the globe.