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KARACHI: Pakistan has achieved a significant milestone in its healthcare sector by unveiling its first locally manufactured ventilator, the ‘AlnnoVent AVB-100’. Developed by the Alsons Group, a precision manufacturing firm based in Karachi. This ventilator has received approval from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) and is now licensed for production.
The AlnnoVent AVB-100 is an electro-mechanical ICU ventilator that meets international standards of quality and reliability. It supports adult patients across five invasive and two non-invasive ventilation modes, making it suitable for a range of critical care scenarios. This development was initiated in response to the acute shortage of respiratory aid devices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, officiated the launch ceremony. He praised the Alsons Group for their innovation and emphasized the importance of technological self-reliance for Pakistan’s future.
Iqbal stated, “We require an army of such individuals – people who combine skill, hard work, ambition, and the intelligence that defines our nation.”
The minister highlighted that such advancements are crucial as Pakistan approaches its centenary in 2047. He expressed confidence in the country’s ability to leverage emerging technologies under the Fourth Industrial Revolution to outpace regional competitors within the next two decades.
Iqbal also underscored the need for consistent policies and long-term reforms, drawing inspiration from nations like Japan and South Korea. He set a bold target of increasing exports from $30 billion to $100 billion within the next decade, emphasizing the crucial role of the private sector in driving growth, especially in agriculture and industry.
The launch of the AlnnoVent AVB-100 marks a pivotal step towards reducing dependence on imported medical equipment and showcases Pakistan’s potential in high-tech medical device manufacturing. This achievement not only addresses critical healthcare needs but also positions Pakistan as a burgeoning player in the global medical technology market.
