In a historic achievement for India, 24-year-old Rohan Mehta has been awarded the prestigious James Dyson Award 2025 for his revolutionary invention, JivaScope. This portable, AI-driven diagnostic device aims to bridge the healthcare gap in rural and underserved areas. In an exclusive interview with NextMinuteNews, Rohan shares the inspiring journey behind JivaScope and his path to global recognition.
The Spark of Inspiration
Rohan’s journey began in a small Odisha village, where he witnessed the struggles of rural communities in accessing timely medical care. “When my grandmother fell ill, we traveled over 100 kilometers for basic tests. By the time we got the results, her condition had worsened,” he recalls. This experience inspired him to create a portable, affordable diagnostic tool that could bring healthcare to people’s doorsteps.
While studying Biomedical Engineering at IIT Delhi, Rohan began experimenting with sensors, AI algorithms, and microfluidics. “I wanted to develop a device that could analyze samples like blood and urine on the spot, eliminating the need for a lab,” he explains. His early prototypes, though basic, laid the groundwork for JivaScope.
The Birth of JivaScope
JivaScope is a handheld device that combines advanced AI with state-of-the-art sensor technology to perform a wide range of diagnostic tests. It can detect conditions like diabetes, anemia, and infections through blood, urine, and saliva samples. The device connects to a smartphone app, delivering instant results and actionable recommendations.
“The biggest challenge was miniaturizing the technology without sacrificing accuracy,” Rohan says. “We developed custom sensors and optimized AI algorithms to work with limited processing power.” After two years of relentless effort and collaboration with medical experts, Rohan and his team perfected the prototype.
Winning the James Dyson Award
The James Dyson Award, known for honoring innovative solutions to global problems, provided the ideal platform for JivaScope. “I didn’t expect to win; I just wanted to share our work with the world,” Rohan admits. The judges, however, were captivated by the device’s potential to democratize healthcare. “Rohan’s invention is a game-changer,” said Sir James Dyson. “It tackles a critical issue with simplicity and ingenuity.”
The £30,000 prize will fund scaling production and clinical trials. “Our goal is to make JivaScope affordable, especially for rural communities,” Rohan says. “We’re already partnering with NGOs and government agencies for pilot programs in underserved areas.”
The Road Ahead
Rohan envisions technology as a transformative force in addressing India’s healthcare challenges. “We have the talent and resources to create solutions that impact millions. What we need is more support for innovation and entrepreneurship,” he emphasizes.
Rohan remains humble about his achievement. “This award isn’t just for me; it’s for everyone who believed in JivaScope and supported me. My grandmother’s struggle inspired me, but it’s the collective effort of my team and mentors that made this possible.”
With JivaScope, Rohan Mehta has not only won a global award but also ignited hope for a healthier, more equitable future. His story exemplifies the power of innovation, perseverance, and the drive to make a difference.
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for updates on JivaScope and other groundbreaking innovations shaping our future.
