New Delhi, August 8: India is stepping up efforts to build a globally competitive medical technology ecosystem, with policymakers and industry stakeholders focusing on domestic innovation, manufacturing capabilities and expansion into international markets.
The issue was highlighted during India Medical Device 2026, being held in New Delhi on August 7-8. The event, organised by the Department of Pharmaceuticals in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), brings together policymakers, manufacturers, healthcare professionals and industry representatives to discuss the future of medical technology in the country.
The discussions come as India seeks to reduce its dependence on imported medical equipment while creating an industry capable of serving both domestic requirements and overseas markets.
Pharmaceuticals Secretary Arunish Chawla has stressed the need for India to develop an export-oriented medical devices industry and strengthen its presence in international markets. The emphasis reflects a broader policy push to move beyond import substitution and establish India as a significant manufacturing and innovation hub for medical technologies.
The sector covers a wide range of products, including diagnostic equipment, monitoring systems, surgical technologies, implants and other devices used across healthcare facilities.
A stronger domestic manufacturing base could also improve access to advanced healthcare technologies by encouraging innovation and supporting the development of products suited to India’s healthcare requirements.
The government has increasingly placed medical devices among the priority areas for strengthening domestic manufacturing. Industry discussions have also focused on developing research capabilities, encouraging investment and creating partnerships that can help Indian companies compete internationally.
Experts and stakeholders participating in the event are expected to examine opportunities for collaboration between manufacturers, healthcare providers, researchers and global companies.
The push for an export-oriented ecosystem is also aimed at increasing India’s role in global medical technology supply chains. Greater participation in international markets could provide domestic manufacturers with opportunities to scale production, improve product standards and expand research and development.
The government’s emphasis on self-reliance in medical technology comes amid growing demand for sophisticated healthcare equipment and diagnostic solutions.
The two-day event is therefore expected to contribute to discussions on how India can combine domestic capacity building with global partnerships to develop a stronger and more competitive medical device industry.