Government of India’s Push for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ to Strengthen Medical Device Manufacturing

The Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative is significantly enhancing the country’s medical device manufacturing sector. This strategic move aims to reduce import dependency, boost domestic production, and position India as a global leader in medical device innovation.

Key Components of the Initiative:

1. Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme:
   • The PLI scheme offers financial incentives to encourage domestic manufacturing of medical devices. It focuses on high-end products such as cancer care devices, radiology equipment, anesthetics, and implants. The scheme has approved 26 applicants for manufacturing 138 products, with a total financial outlay of ₹3,420 crore for the period 2020-21 to 2027-28.
2. Infrastructure Development:
   • Establishment of medical device parks and clusters provides state-of-the-art infrastructure and common facilities, reducing manufacturing costs and enhancing competitiveness.
3. Policy Support:
   • The National Medical Devices Policy envisions India emerging as a global leader in manufacturing and innovation, aiming for a 10-12% share in the expanding global market over the next 25 years.
4. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):
   • The government permits 100% FDI under the automatic route for medical device manufacturing, attracting global players to invest in India.

Impact on the Medical Device Industry:

• Increased Domestic Production:
  • The initiative has led to the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, such as the Wipro GE Medical Device Manufacturing factory, which aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat agenda and boosts local production.
• Reduction in Import Dependency:
  • By promoting local manufacturing, India aims to decrease its reliance on imported medical devices, enhancing self-sufficiency.
• Global Competitiveness:
  • With improved infrastructure and policy support, Indian manufacturers are better positioned to compete globally, aligning with the “Make in India, Make for the World” vision.

Challenges and Considerations:

• Quality Assurance:
  • Ensuring that domestically manufactured devices meet international quality standards is crucial for global acceptance.
• Skilled Workforce:
  • Developing a skilled workforce to operate advanced manufacturing technologies remains a priority.
• Regulatory Framework:
  • Streamlining regulatory processes to facilitate ease of doing business is essential for attracting investments.

In summary, the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative is transforming India’s medical device manufacturing landscape by fostering self-reliance, encouraging innovation, and enhancing global competitiveness. Continued focus on quality, skill development, and regulatory reforms will be pivotal in sustaining this growth trajectory.