Prof Attri calls for responsible integration of AI, biomedical research to combat cancer

Srinagar, Jun 8: Prof. (Dr.) M.R. Attri, a prominent laparoscopic surgeon and Professor & Head of the Department of Surgery at Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, has emphasised the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionising healthcare and biomedical research, particularly in the discovery of new anti-cancer drugs. Prof. Attri was speaking as the Guest of Honour at the valedictory function of the Advanced Workshop on “AI-Driven Drug Discovery in Various Cancers and In Vitro Validation for Translational Research: Towards Viksit Bharat @2047”, organised by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora. Addressing participants at IUST, Prof. Attri congratulated the Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCCMM), School of Health Sciences, and the organising committee led by Dr. Muzzaffer Ahmed Macha for successfully conducting the workshop with the active support of ICMR. Highlighting the evolving landscape of modern medicine, Prof. Attri said AI is accelerating drug discovery by enabling rapid analysis of biological data, prediction of molecular interactions, identification of therapeutic targets and development of novel therapies. He stressed that technological advancements must ultimately serve humanity by improving patient outcomes and strengthening public health systems. He noted that the discovery of new anti-cancer molecules is traditionally a long, costly and uncertain process, but the integration of artificial intelligence is helping accelerate research and innovation, bringing potential therapies closer to clinical application. Drawing from more than 35 years of experience as a surgeon, particularly in the treatment of cancer patients, Prof. Attri underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among clinicians, scientists, engineers and data experts. He emphasized that the future of healthcare lies in strong collaborative ecosystems capable of translating scientific discoveries into real-world solutions. Speaking on the significance of translational research, he remarked that innovation achieves its true value only when validated and implemented responsibly. “Without validation, innovation remains a possibility; with validation, it becomes healthcare,” he observed. Prof. Attri encouraged young researchers to use AI as a tool to enhance human intelligence, address real societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to national development. He noted that achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 would require sustained scientific excellence, innovation and collaborative research efforts, adding that nothing can be achieved in isolation. He also highlighted Kashmir’s growing potential as a hub of scientific excellence and called upon participants to build enduring research partnerships that can contribute to both national progress and global scientific advancement, particularly in the management of cancer, which remains a significant health challenge in the region. Concluding his address, Prof. Attri stated, “The future of medicine will not be shaped by technology alone; it will be shaped by the wisdom with which we apply technology in service of humanity.” He urged participants to carry forward the spirit of collaboration, innovation and societal responsibility in their future research endeavours. The workshop brought together scientists, academicians, clinicians and researchers from diverse disciplines from across the country, providing a platform for advancing AI-enabled biomedical research and fostering collaborations aligned with India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.