Indian government has opened the door for fresh investment in the country's medical devices sector, inviting eligible entities to apply under the Scheme for Strengthening of Medical Device Industry (SMDI). 

 

The move by Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers is aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing, cutting import dependence, advancing innovation, and deepening value chains in a strategically important industry.

 

Applications are being accepted under two focused sub-schemes designed to strengthen both production capacity and clinical research infrastructure.

 

Under the Marginal Investment Scheme for Reducing Import Dependence, selected applicants will receive incentives in the form of a one-time capital subsidy of up to Rs. 10 crore on a reimbursement basis. The support is intended for manufacturing key components, raw materials, finished devices, and accessories, with a clear goal of reducing reliance on imports.

 

In parallel, the department will extend financial assistance of up to Rs. 5 crore under the Medical Device Clinical Studies Support Scheme (MDCSS). This funding, also on a reimbursement basis, will support clinical investigation, clinical performance evaluation, post-market follow-up studies, and animal studies for eligible applicants.

 

Together, the two schemes signal a push to strengthen India’s self-reliance in medical devices by combining manufacturing incentives with structured support for clinical validation.