In a major push to strengthen India’s medical device ecosystem, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers has invited applications from eligible companies under the Scheme for Strengthening of Medical Device Industry (SMDI). The initiative aims to accelerate domestic manufacturing, reduce dependence on imports, encourage innovation, and strengthen the country’s medical device value chain. Under the scheme, eligible applicants can receive financial assistance of up to ₹10 crore, providing a significant boost to manufacturers investing in the sector.

Two Key Sub-Schemes Introduced

The government has opened applications under two strategic sub-schemes designed to address critical gaps in India’s medical device industry: Marginal Investment Scheme for Reducing Import Dependence and Medical Device Clinical Studies Support Scheme (MDCSS). Together, these initiatives seek to enhance local manufacturing capabilities while supporting product development and regulatory compliance.

Capital Subsidy to Promote Domestic Manufacturing

Through the Marginal Investment Scheme, the government will provide a one-time capital subsidy of up to ₹10 crore on a reimbursement basis to selected applicants. The financial support covers investments in the manufacturing of key components, raw materials, finished medical devices, and accessories that help reduce India’s reliance on imported products. By encouraging local production, the scheme is expected to improve supply chain resilience, enhance self-reliance, and strengthen the competitiveness of India’s medical device industry.

Financial Support for Clinical Studies

In addition to manufacturing incentives, the government has introduced the Medical Device Clinical Studies Support Scheme (MDCSS) to encourage innovation and facilitate regulatory approvals. Eligible applicants can receive financial assistance of up to ₹5 crore on a reimbursement basis for conducting clinical investigations, clinical performance evaluations, post-market follow-up studies and animal studies. The funding is intended to support the generation of high-quality clinical evidence, enabling Indian manufacturers to develop safer, more effective medical devices while improving their access to domestic and international markets.

Strengthening India’s Medical Device Ecosystem

The SMDI initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to build a globally competitive medical device manufacturing sector. As reported by edexlive.com, by supporting investments in production and clinical research, the scheme aims to reduce import dependence, foster innovation, strengthen the domestic supply chain, and position India as a leading hub for medical device manufacturing.