PM-CARES approves Rs322.5 crores to procure DRDO’s Oxygen System

PM-CARES approves Rs322.5 cr to purchase DRDO’s ‘Oxycare’ system

1.5 lakh units to be procured

New Delhi, May 12

The government on Wednesday approved the procurement of 1.5 lakh units of ‘Oxycare’ system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), for Rs 322.5 crore from the PM-CARES Fund to help in the treatment of Covid-19 patients.

‘Oxycare’ delivers supplemental oxygen based on the O2 levels in patient and prevents the person from sinking into a state of hypoxia which can be fatal.

This system was developed by the Defence Bio-Engineering & Electro Medical Laboratory (DEBEL), Bengaluru, for soldiers posted at extreme high-altitude areas. The system is indigenously developed for operation in field conditions and is robust. It can be effectively used to treat Covid-19 patients.

Two variants of the system have been configured. The basic version consists of a 10-litre oxygen cylinder, a pressure regulator-cum-flow controller, a humidifier and a nasal cannula. The oxygen flow is regulated manually based on the O2 readings of person. In the second configuration, the oxygen cylinder is equipped with electronic controls which automatically regulate the oxygen flow through a low-pressure regulator.

The device optimises the consumption of oxygen and effectively increases the endurance of portable oxygen cylinder. The value for initiating flow of oxygen from the system can be adjusted by the health staff. The system also provides suitable audio warning for various failure scenarios including low values. A mask is integrated with the systems for efficient use.

These systems can be used at homes, quarantine centres, Covid care centres and hospitals. The DRDO has transferred the technology to multiple industries in India which will be producing the Oxycare systems, the Ministry of Defence said .

Meanwhile, Indian Navy warship, INS Tarkash, carrying two Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) filled cryogenic containers and 230 Oxygen cylinders arrived at Mumbai port today.

The oxygen containers were facilitated by the French Mission as part of “Oxygen Solidarity Bridge” and oxygen cylinders were gifted by Indian diaspora in Qatar. The consignment was handed over to Civil Administration, Maharashtra.