At the ICMR-National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, Dr Peter Sjö, Head of Discovery Projects at DNDi, explored drug discovery for neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The talk, titled Drug Discovery Targeting Tropical Viral and Parasitic Diseases, engaged with experts, senior and young researchers to discuss the challenges and opportunities in developing treatments for these diseases that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations of low- and middle-income countries.

A key moment in the discussion was when one participant raised an important question: How can we ensure that patients with NTDs receive the medicines they need? This question emphasized the ongoing work of DNDi, which focuses not only on drug innovation but also on making sure these treatments are accessible and affordable for the people who need them most.

With Dr Naveen Kumar, Director of ICMR-NIV, and other experts in the room, the talk addressed the importance of cross-sector partnerships to close the barriers to access, affordability, and distribution of life-saving medicines. The discussion also touched on the vital role of open research sharing, capacity-building for young scientists, and the need for collaboration between public health systems, research institutions, and the private sector to turn scientific discoveries into accessible treatments.