MARC Celebrates 35 Years of Empowering Dreams: Over 11,000 Babies Born through Assisted Reproduction
Manipal, Feb 20, 2024: The Manipal Assisted Reproduction Centre (MARC) celebrated its 35th anniversary at the Dr TMA Pai Auditorium, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, with a vibrant event on February 18. Vasanthi R Pai, the esteemed first lady of Manipal, graced the occasion as the chief guest, leading the joyous cake-cutting ceremony marking the 25th birthday of the first In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) child born through MARC.
MARC, a trailblazer in infertility treatments, proudly commemorated the birth of 11,000 babies, showcasing its commitment to providing dedicated services for infertile couples. The event, known as “MARC DAY,” featured an array of children’s games, delighting both the young participants and their parents. Notable attendees included several children who owe their existence to MARC procedures, with the oldest IVF child being 25 years old.
The Guest of Honour, Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, highlighted MARC’s cutting-edge facilities during the celebration. These include a fully equipped andrology laboratory for male subfertility evaluation, semen banking for both short and long-term storage, and advanced embryology laboratories meeting international standards. The center also specializes in laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgeries aimed at enhancing fertility.
Dr. Pratap Kumar, Professor and Head of the Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, provided an overview of MARC’s journey since its establishment in 1990. He traced the center’s evolution from basic procedures to the introduction of the IVF procedure in 1998. The first successful IVF birth occurred on February 18, 1999, marking a significant milestone.
Dr. Pratap emphasized MARC’s comprehensive range of treatment programs for subfertile couples, supported by experienced doctors and scientists trained abroad to address subfertility issues. The center’s commitment to pioneering technological advancements has solidified MARC’s position as one of India’s most advanced infertility treatment centers.
Dr. Krishnananda Prabhu, Associate Dean of KMC Manipal, and Dr. Satish Adiga, Professor & Head of the Division of Clinical Embryology were present. The event drew over 200 children and their parents, creating a heartwarming atmosphere of gratitude and celebration for the transformative impact of MARC over the past 35 years.
