High Precision Medical Instruments

Why in news

The government has implemented schemes to promote indigenous manufacturing of medical devices, including high-end and high-precision instruments, with specific details on the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Medical Devices and the Scheme for Promotion of Medical Device Parks.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Science & Technology, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The government is promoting indigenous manufacturing of high-end and high-precision medical instruments.
2. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Medical Devices has an outlay of ₹3,420 crore.
3. The PLI scheme provides incentives on eligible incremental sales in four target segments: cancer-care/radiotherapy, radiology and imaging, anaesthetics/cardio-respiratory/renal-care devices, and implants.
4. Twenty-seven applications have been approved under the PLI scheme, including 14 MSMEs.
5. Approved projects under PLI have reported actual investment of ₹1,153.07 crore.
6. Domestic production of MRI and CT equipment, LINACs, mammography systems, C-arms, ultrasound equipment, heart valves, and stents has commenced due to the PLI scheme.
7. The Scheme for Promotion of Medical Device Parks has an outlay of ₹300 crore.
8. This scheme supports common testing, sterilization, warehousing, incubation, and prototyping infrastructure.
9. Central assistance of up to ₹100 crore is provided per park under this scheme.
10. Three medical device parks are under implementation at Noida (Uttar Pradesh), Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu).
11. The Scheme for Strengthening of Medical Device Industry (SMDI) has an outlay of ₹500 crore for FY.

Prelims pointers

• Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Medical Devices aims to boost indigenous manufacturing.
• PLI Scheme covers segments like cancer-care, radiology, anaesthetics, and implants.
• Scheme for Promotion of Medical Device Parks supports common infrastructure facilities.
• Medical Device Parks are being established in Noida, Ujjain, and Kanchipuram.
• The SMDI scheme aims to strengthen the medical device industry.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of government initiatives like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Medical Devices and the Scheme for Promotion of Medical Device Parks in enhancing India's self-reliance and manufacturing capabilities in the healthcare sector.

Static linkage

The initiatives are part of the government's broader strategy to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce import dependence, and enhance self-reliance in critical sectors like healthcare, aligning with 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.

Significance

These schemes are crucial for enhancing India's capabilities in producing advanced medical equipment, reducing reliance on imports, potentially lowering healthcare costs, and fostering innovation and employment in the medical technology sector. The focus on MSMEs is important for inclusive growth. The development of medical device parks provides essential infrastructure, streamlining the manufacturing process and encouraging investment.