The industry is expected to
reach $50 billion by 2030, mostly due to the rise in non-communicable diseases,
an aging population, and a growing need for healthcare services. With a combination of innovative startups, government initiatives, and
a growing talent pool, India is well on its way to becoming a global hub for
MedTech. This transformation is driven
by a confluence of factors including technological advancements, policy
support, and an ever-increasing demand for affordable healthcare solutions,
both domestically and globally. As one of the fastest-growing sectors,
India’s MedTech industry holds immense potential to revolutionise healthcare
delivery and outcomes. The National Health Mission (NHM) has been instrumental
in improving healthcare infrastructure and accessibility across the country. The government has also provided
incentives, such as tax breaks and subsidies, to encourage investments in the
Med-Tech sector. Growth and innovation have been encouraged by the creation
of medical device parks and the application of Production Linked Incentive
(PLI) programmes.
Our ability to guarantee the quality and safety of our products has
significantly improved with the establishment of centralised testing and
validation labs. In addition, the thriving startup scene, which is home to over
4,000 companies, and programmes like the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) have
played a critical role in fostering innovation and resolving regional
healthcare issues.. .The procurement procedure has been simplified via the GeM
site, enabling more efficient and transparent government spending on medical
technology. This platform has facilitated better access to medical devices for
public healthcare facilities. The country’s
growing middle class is increasingly seeking quality healthcare options,
driving demand for advanced medical devices and treatments.
India’s MedTech industry has witnessed significant technological
advancements in recent years... Furthermore,
collaborations between Indian and foreign companies have facilitated technology
transfer and knowledge sharing. This has enabled Indian Med-Tech companies to
develop cutting-edge products and compete effectively in the global market.
Despite the significant progress made, India’s MedTech industry faces
some challenges. Regulatory hurdles, lack of a strong supply chain, and
infrastructure constraints can hinder the growth of the sector. However, these
challenges also present opportunities for innovation and improvement. The
government is taking steps to address these challenges through regulatory
reforms and infrastructure development. The focus on innovation and research
and development can also help India overcome these hurdles and emerge as a
global leader in MedTech.
We have a great opportunity to collaboratively address key areas such as
quality control, competition, and R&D investments. Enhancing regulatory
frameworks and increasing R&D investments are essential for sustaining
growth and innovation in the sector…Innovation
is fuelled by partnerships between academia and industry. The development
of cutting-edge medical innovations will be greatly aided by the construction
of incubation centres in partnership with international institutes.
Additionally, building a trained workforce requires promoting job opportunities
in the MedTech sector and working with academic institutions to design courses
that address industry demands. The future of India’s MedTech industry will be
shaped by its ability to innovate, adapt, and collaborate effectively…The
industry has the potential to greatly boost the economy in addition to
improving healthcare outcomes as it develops…India’s journey towards becoming a global MedTech hub is well underway.