Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) has developed a technology for precision manufacturing of Safety Goggles for healthcare professionals involved in treating high viral load patients as in the case of COVID-19 pandemic.

The report says that the technology was transferred yesterday to Sark Industries, Chandigarh for its commercialization and mass production.

A team of CSIR-CSIO scientists led by Chief Scientist & Head, Optical Devices & Systems, Dr. Vinod Karar had taken up the design and development of the Safety goggles in consultation with various industries and stakeholders for an affordable and innovative precision manufacturing technique.

These safety goggles are designed with a flexible frame to provide tighter sealing with the skin of the face and would cover the eyes and the surrounding areas and even accommodating for preion glasses. It consists of a sturdy polycarbonate lens and an adjustable elastic strap for ease of wearing.

Senior Scientist & Principal Investigator, CSIR-CSIO, Dr. Neha Khatri said, the developed protective eyewear is ergonomically designed to provide full cover and efficient sealing to the eye area and would protect the healthcare professionals from hazardous aerosols as well as other suspended particles. 

Dr Surender S Saini during the technology transfer said, apart from healthcare professionals, the developed safety goggle is useful for general public in crowded areas as well as in public transports.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that powered by the Corona warriors, India is firmly fighting COVID-19. Addressing an event through video conferencing to mark the special occasion of the 90th birthday of Most Revered Doctor Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Mr. Modi said, earlier this year, some people had predicted that the impact of the virus in India would be very severe.

He said, due to lockdown, many initiatives taken by the Government and a people-driven fight, India is much better placed than many other nations. Mr. Modi said India's recovery rate is rising. He said, a people-driven fight has given good results so far but we cannot let our guard down.  People have to be even more careful now. Wearing masks, social distancing, do gaz ki doori, avoiding crowded places, are still important.

He has further added, the world is fighting a strong battle against a global pandemic and COVID-19 is not only a physical sickness that is a threat to the lives of people it also takes our attention to unhealthy lifestyles.  In the last few weeks, the Government of India has addressed both short-term and long-term issues relating to the economy from the sea to space, the farms to the factories, people-friendly and growth-friendly decisions have been taken.

The Prime Minister said, Government wants to ensure better technology, infrastructure and making value chains stronger. He said, Government has taken decisions not from comfortable Government offices in Delhi but after feedback from people of the ground.  It is this spirit that ensures every Indian has access to a bank account. He said, over 8 crore families have access to smoke-free kitchens and over 1.5 crore houses have been made to give shelter to the homeless. He added that India is home to the largest healthcare scheme in the world, Ayushman Bharat.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings to Most Revered Doctor Joseph Mar Thoma Metropolitan and wished him long life and best health. He said, Dr. Joseph Mar Thoma has devoted his life for the betterment of the society and nation and he has been particularly passionate about the removal of poverty and women empowerment. The Mar Thoma Church is closely linked with the noble ideals of Saint Thomas, the Apostle of Lord Christ. He said, India has always been open to spiritual influences from many sources.  It is with this spirit of humility that the Mar Thoma Church has worked to bring a positive difference in the lives of our fellow Indians. He said, they have done so in areas such as healthcare and education.