The Department of Pharmaceuticals is seeking applications for the Scheme for Strengthening of Medical Device Industry (SMDI) to enhance domestic manufacturing, reduce import reliance, foster innovation, and enhance value chains in the medical devices sector. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers announced that applications are now open for two sub-schemes: the Marginal Investment Scheme for Reducing Import Dependence and the Medical Device Clinical Studies Support Scheme.
Under the Marginal Investment Scheme, selected applicants stand to receive a one-time capital subsidy of up to Rs 10 crore for producing key components, raw materials, finished devices, or accessories to lessen import dependence. Additionally, the department will offer financial backing of up to Rs 5 crore under the MDCSS Scheme for carrying out clinical investigations, performance evaluations, post-market follow-up studies, and animal studies.
Interested parties must submit their proposals through the online portal by 6 pm on July 23. Detailed information on eligibility, application procedures, and terms and conditions can be found on the Department of Pharmaceuticals’ website, as per the ministry’s statement.
The SMDI also includes a sub-scheme focused on capacity building and skill development in the Medical Device Sector to address educational and research gaps in the medical devices field. This initiative aims to ensure high-quality teaching, training, and the cultivation of excellence in Medical Technology education to produce a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the rapidly evolving Medical Technology landscape.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows in the pharmaceutical sector reached Rs 12,753 crore in 2024-25. Between April and September 2025, FDI inflows in pharmaceuticals and medical devices totaled Rs 13,193 crore, marking an increase from the same period in the previous year.
