The healthcare industry's evolution into a more evidence based and clinically focused field can be largely attributed to advancements in diagnostic technology. The significant rise in technological integration has become essential in enhancing customer experience and supporting clinical decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of numerous technologies and innovations that were previously only theoretical discussions.

However, the healthcare leaders in the country constantly need to find ways to step up the efforts to improve

healthcare. On the flipside, academia must shoulder a fair amount of responsibility toward achieving this by collaborating with industry outfits and infusing the latest technologies in research, thereby exposing students to current challenges in the patient care lifecycle. For instance, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) recently joined hands with Clini Experts - one of India's leading research-to-regulation groups that offers comprehensive clinical research and regulatory services to the healthcare, MedTech, and pharmaceutical industries. The newly forged alliance is set to significantly contribute to the development of a comprehensive wellness framework nationwide. The partnership between CliniExperts and Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangalore - a key division of MAHE - will encrust integrated research, trials, and innovative initiatives, leveraging their combined expertise and resources. Envisioned as a sustained academic-industry collaboration, this venture will encompass a broad spectrum of cooperative endeavors, ranging from research and clinical trials to academic inquiries, investigator-led studies and extensive epidemiological research. This yearly special issue is dedicated to healthcare leaders in India. Do let us know your thoughts.