As a first step, the WIDF will support the establishment of the Indian Institute of Diabetes (IID) in Trivandrum, Kerala, India. Kerala, whose population has an average life expectancy of approximately of 70-73 years, has the highest prevalence of diabetes in India. Experts from the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Nutrition of the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN have agreed to assist in the development of the Institutes' research and education programs. The IID will be a national center with representation of physicians, administrators, and entrepreneurs from various parts of India in its governing body. The Center will train physicians and paramedical staff from all over India on prevention and the management of diabetes. The proposed activities of the IID include:

1. Investigate the genetic basis of diabetes among Indians.
2. Train Indian physicians and paramedical staff in centers of excellence in USA..
3. Provide research support to develop novel methods of treatment.
4. Endow academic chairs in diabetes.
5. Organize state-of-the-art conferences in India on various aspects in diabetes.

A foundation stone-laying ceremony for the IID was held on November 29, 2001 by the Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. A. K. Antony. This was attended by several international diabetologists including representatives from Mayo Clinic, Joslin Clinic, Karolinska Institute (Sweden). At that meeting the Kerala Health Minister will formally hand over the land (site for the IID) to the Chair of the WIDF. Shown below are photographs from the ceremony: