Kerala becomes India’s first state to introduce robotic-assisted gait therapy at primary health centres, empowering tribal patients with advanced rehabilitation.
In a landmark step towards inclusive healthcare, Kerala has become the first state in India to integrate robotic-assisted rehabilitation technology at the primary healthcare level. The state has installed the advanced Robotic Assisted Gait Trainer ‘G-Gaiter’ at the Noolpuzha Family Health Centre (FHC) in Wayanad, marking a new era in accessible neuro-rehabilitation for tribal and marginalized communities.
The innovative facility was officially inaugurated by Kerala Health Minister Veena George, who lauded the milestone as a major leap in equitable healthcare delivery.
“We are proud to introduce the upgraded version of the G-Gaiter, designed for both adult and pediatric rehabilitation. During my interaction with a patient named Jagatheesh from Tamil Nadu, I witnessed the joy of him walking again after a long time — a truly emotional moment that shows how technology can transform lives,” said Minister Veena George during the inauguration.
Advanced Rehabilitation for Tribal Communities
The installation of the robotic gait trainer is part of the Chief Minister’s Wayanad Special Rehabilitation Package, aimed at improving healthcare access in the district’s tribal regions. Over 50% of Noolpuzha Panchayat’s population belongs to tribal communities, and the launch of this high-tech rehabilitation system ensures that patients who once had to travel long distances for therapy can now receive world-class rehabilitation care locally.
“Noolpuzha FHC is located in a highly underdeveloped area, where most people belong to tribal and marginalized groups. Introducing a robotic rehabilitation system here is a milestone in inclusive healthcare,” said Dr. Dahar Mohammed V.P., Medical Officer, Noolpuzha FHC.
Kerala Startup Drives Healthcare Innovation
The ‘G-Gaiter’ system has been developed by Genrobotics Innovations, a Kerala-based robotics startup known for its pioneering technologies in healthcare and social welfare. The company’s innovation underscores India’s growing expertise in medical robotics and its potential to revolutionize patient rehabilitation.
The robotic gait trainer is designed to aid patients recovering from stroke, spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, and other gait-related disabilities. It provides robotic assistance to enhance balance, coordination, and walking ability, significantly accelerating functional recovery.
Proven Results from Clinical Use
Before its introduction at Noolpuzha, the G-Gaiter system had been successfully deployed at the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) Department of the Thiruvananthapuram General Hospital for over a year.
“In a clinical crossover study involving 36 stroke patients, we observed significant improvement in their balance and gait functions. So far, over 80 patients have benefited from the technology,” said Dr. Arun John, PMR Consultant at the General Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram.
Transforming Primary Healthcare in Kerala
By incorporating robotic gait therapy at the primary healthcare level, Kerala is setting a new benchmark for accessible, technology-driven public health. The initiative not only brings advanced rehabilitation within reach of rural and tribal communities but also strengthens the state’s reputation as a leader in healthcare innovation and inclusivity.
This pioneering move aligns with Kerala’s commitment to social justice and equitable healthcare, ensuring that every citizen — regardless of geography or background — can benefit from the latest medical advancements.