NEW DELHI: Regenerative medicine and neuro-rehabilitation have emerged as a beacon of hope for patients suffering from traumatic brain injuries (TBI) in the country. During a press conference organized by the Society of Regenerative Sciences, the inspiring story of Akash Saxena, a young marine engineer from Lucknow, was shared. Akash has shown remarkable recovery through this advanced medical approach after spending six months in a ‘persistent vegetative state’ (deep unconsciousness).
At the press conference, experts highlighted that India shoulders one of the largest burdens of Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) globally. Every year, more than 1 million people in the country suffer from severe brain injuries, leading to over 100,000 deaths. Road accidents account for nearly 60 percent of these cases, leaving a vast number of patients permanently disabled or in a vegetative state.
This issue recently gained national attention when, on March 11, 2026, the Supreme Court of India permitted passive euthanasia for a 31-year-old man who had been in a vegetative state for 13 years. In this context, experts noted that advancements in medical science are now opening new doors of recovery for such patients.
Marine engineer Akash Saxena suffered a severe brain injury after surviving a 15-foot fall on a ship. Despite receiving treatment at multiple hospitals, he remained in a coma, unable to speak, recognize his family, or move his limbs. After six months in a vegetative state, his family learned about regenerative medicine options available in Mumbai.
His treatment, along with a comprehensive rehabilitation program and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, began in January 2022, leading to a gradual and miraculous turnaround. His Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score improved significantly from 7 to 15, which indicates normal consciousness. Today, Akash can speak clearly, sit independently, eat on his own, and is attempting to walk with minimal support. During this press conference, Akash also interacted with the journalists, speaking with a slight stutter.
Speaking on behalf of the organization, Dr. Nandini stated that India is steadily emerging as a global leader in the field of regenerative medicine. Out of 960 research papers published worldwide, 196 are from India. The organization highlighted the pioneering work done by Dr. P. Venugopal at AIIMS, New Delhi, alongside research from PGIMER, Chandigarh. Currently, AIIMS is also utilizing this technology to treat children suffering from Spina Bifida.
The Society has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda to promote regenerative medicine, streamline regulatory hurdles, and include this treatment under the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme. Meanwhile, Akash Saxena and his family have also appealed for a personal meeting with the Prime Minister to share their journey and challenges firsthand.
