In a groundbreaking virtual ceremony, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, unveiled ‘MedTech Mitra,’ a strategic initiative aimed at nurturing the talents of young innovators in the country and shaping their research, knowledge, and logic into impactful healthcare solutions. The launch took place in the presence of Prof. S.P. Singh Bhagel, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, and Dr. V.K Paul, Member Health, Niti Aayog.
A Holistic Vision for India’s Health Landscape
A vision of Viksit Bharat
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the integral role of the medical devices sector in India’s healthcare landscape. With a commitment to the vision of Viksit Bharat, India’s holistic approach to health, the government aims to transform the health sector by 2047.
Importance of the MedTech Sector
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the significance of the MedTech sector, stating that it is a vital component of India’s healthcare. Acknowledging that the sector heavily relies on imports, constituting up to 80%, the Union Health Minister outlined the strides made through production-linked incentive schemes, investments in medical drug parks, and the implementation of MedTech research policies and incentive schemes.
Indigenous Development for Self-Reliance
Collaborative Initiative
The launch of ‘MedTech Mitra’ marks a collaborative effort to facilitate the indigenous development of affordable and high-quality MedTech devices and diagnostics. Dr. Mandaviya emphasized that this initiative aims to significantly reduce the import dependence of the MedTech sector, aligning with the overarching goal of fostering self-reliance in India.
Growth and Potential
Expressing confidence in the sector’s growth, Dr. Mandaviya projected India to become a $50 billion industry by 2030. He underscored the sector’s dynamic nature, noting the rapid evolution driven by advancements in technology, including Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Virtual Reality, and Nano Technology.
Empowering Innovators and Youth
Support at the Approval Stage
Dr. Mandaviya commended the innovators, researchers, and startup youth in the country, recognizing their profound capabilities in research and logic development. He emphasized the transformative impact that timely support at the approval stage could have, propelling India towards self-reliance and realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Atmanirbhar Bharat
Lauding the initiative and the efforts of the innovators, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the immense power within the youth who possess the know-how of research and logic development. He envisioned that with support at the approval stage, India could achieve remarkable milestones, moving closer to becoming Atmanirbhar and realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat.
