India’s medical device sector is witnessing a transformative shift, with homegrown innovations challenging the long-standing reliance on imports. A recent report revealed that medical device exports have surged by an impressive 88% over the last six financial years, reaching over $4 billion, a testament to the success of government schemes like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
A particularly exciting development is the rise of Indian-made surgical robots. In late July, French surgeons successfully operated on Indian patients using a "Made-in-India" robot, showcasing the country's growing capabilities in high-end medical technology. This event highlights a trend where Indian companies are not just manufacturing, but also innovating in sophisticated fields previously dominated by international players.
The country's surgical robotics market is one of the fastest-growing in the Asia Pacific region, projected to reach nearly $4 billion by 2031. With the government actively encouraging the use of advanced medical technologies and supporting local manufacturing, India is closing the gap in high-tech medical devices. This includes the production of devices like MRI and CT machines, linear accelerators, and mammograms—products on which the country has historically been highly import-dependent. This dual focus on manufacturing and innovation is making quality, high-tech healthcare more accessible and affordable for millions of Indians.