Aarogya Maitri Cubes, the world’s first disaster hospital packed in 72 cubes that can be airlifted, had its test run by the Indian Air Force at Agra on May 14. India has become the first country to successfully develop and test a portable, air-droppable hospital.
The Indian Air Force conducted a test run of the BHISHM Cube, a mobile hospital designed for rapid deployment, in Agra.
This innovative solution in emergency healthcare aims to provide comprehensive medical aid swiftly during crises and emergencies. The BHISHM Cube is part of the Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog Hita and Maitri (BHISHM) and was tested as part of the Aarogya Maitri project.
Key features of the BHISHM Cube include its waterproof, lightweight design, allowing for various configurations to suit different emergency scenarios. Equipped with advanced medical equipment, the Cube also utilizes RFID-tagged supplies for efficient repacking and redeployment. Sustainability is a core component, with solar energy and battery power ensuring continuous operation. Remarkably, the Cube can be fully deployed in just 12 minutes and has the capacity to treat up to 200 patients.
The BHISHM Cube is packed with essential supplies, including a compact generator, stretchers, modular medical gear, medications, and food supplies. It also includes sophisticated medical equipment such as X-ray machines, blood testing devices, ventilators, and tools to treat various injuries. Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics facilitates real-time monitoring and efficient management of medical services in the field.
Project BHISHM was announced in February 2022, with the Ministry of Defence establishing a task force to drive this initiative. At the Global South Summit in January 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Aarogya Maitri project, under which India committed to providing essential medical supplies to developing countries affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises.
The technology behind the BHISHM Cube is a testament to India’s prowess in disaster preparedness and medical innovation. The Cubes were recently deployed in Ayodhya to enhance medical readiness during the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Modi on January 22.
The successful test run in Agra demonstrates the Indian Air Force’s ability to rapidly deploy these portable hospitals to remote or disaster-stricken areas, ensuring timely and effective medical intervention. This development not only enhances India’s disaster response capabilities but also positions the country as a global leader in emergency medical solutions.
As the BHISHM Cube becomes operational, it is expected to play a pivotal role in India’s strategy for disaster management and emergency healthcare.
The innovation signifies a major advancement in how medical aid can be delivered swiftly and efficiently during crises, potentially saving countless lives and providing critical support where it is most needed.
