How is ANRF and ICMR Accelerating India's Medical Technology Innovation?
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Synopsis
The collaboration between ANRF and ICMR marks a significant leap in India's medical technology innovation. With substantial funding and strategic partnerships, this mission aims to reduce dependency on imports and enhance the domestic tech landscape. Discover how this initiative will impact healthcare access and quality across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Collaboration between ANRF and ICMR to boost MedTech
- Funding of Rs 750 crore over five years
- Support for 50 innovative projects
- Focus on local solutions to reduce import dependency
- Encouragement of projects aligned with national health priorities
New Delhi, Oct 25 (NationPress) The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), in partnership with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has introduced the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA)-Medical Technology (MedTech) to enhance the nation's medical technology landscape, as announced by the Ministry of Science and Technology on Saturday.
This initiative, which also involves collaboration with the Gates Foundation, aims to fast-track innovation within India's medical tech sector and lessen dependence on expensive imports. Furthermore, it seeks to promote fair access to cost-effective and high-quality medical technologies.
According to the Ministry, “The mission will offer funding support to a diverse array of entities, including academic institutions, research and development organizations, hospitals, startups, MSMEs, the medtech industry, and collaborations among these entities.”
“Through milestone-based funding ranging from Rs 5-25 crore per project (and up to Rs 50 crore in unique situations), the mission will back projects aimed at delivering impactful MedTech solutions,” it further elaborated.
The five-year initiative carries a total budget of Rs 750 crore for funding, with approximately 50 projects expected to receive support over this period.
The mission's objective is to foster the development of a wide variety of innovative medical devices and in vitro diagnostics, including essential equipment, implants, surgical devices, consumables, and software-driven medical solutions.
Moreover, the mission encourages projects that align with national health priorities such as tuberculosis, cancer, neonatal care, and primary health care, as stated by the Ministry.
In addition to financial backing, the mission will provide support through national initiatives like Patent Mitra (for intellectual property protection and technology transfer), MedTech Mitra (offering regulatory guidance and clearances), and a Clinical Trial Network (for clinical validation and evidence generation), along with mentorship from industry specialists.
Participants are required to submit concept notes, which are open until November 7, via the ANRF portal.
Shortlisted proposals will then have the opportunity to submit full applications, with the submission window scheduled to open in December 2025.
Point of View
The collaboration between ANRF and ICMR is a pivotal step towards enhancing India's healthcare system. This initiative not only aims to foster innovation but also emphasizes equitable access to high-quality medical technology. By prioritizing local solutions, India can reduce its dependency on imports and improve the overall health of its population.
NationPress
26/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the MAHA-MedTech mission?
The MAHA-MedTech mission aims to accelerate innovation in India's medical technology sector, reduce reliance on costly imports, and promote equitable access to affordable medical technologies.
Who are the key partners in this initiative?
The key partners in this initiative include the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Gates Foundation.
What type of projects will be funded?
The mission will fund a wide range of projects, including those focused on innovative medical devices, in vitro diagnostics, and other medical technologies that align with national health priorities.
How much funding is available for each project?
Projects can receive funding support ranging from Rs 5-25 crore, with up to Rs 50 crore available in exceptional cases.
When is the deadline for concept note submissions?
The deadline for submitting concept notes is November 7.
