India’s Medical Device Sector Sees Rapid Growth — NIPER Kolkata Launches M. Tech Programme to Build Skilled Workforce
Sanchita Chatterjee, BS News Agency, Kolkata, India: India’s medical devices industry, valued at approximately USD 12 billion in FY 2023–24, is experiencing significant growth across diagnostic imaging (X-ray, CT scan), patient monitoring (ECG, Blood test), in-vitro diagnostics (pregnancy kit), surgical equipment (Laparoscopic surgery), artificial organs (synthetic skin), implantable (hip and knee implants), and rehabilitation devices (wheelchair). The diagnostic devices segment alone is projected to reach USD 6 billion by 2027. Despite this growth, the sector remains 70–80% import-dependent.
To strengthen domestic capabilities (“Atmanirbhar Bharat”), the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the aegis of Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has launched a special programme under which the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Kolkata will offer a two-year self-funded M. Tech in Medical Technology course, admitting 20 students annually through NIPER JEE after getting qualified through GATE/NET/GPAT or other national level eligibility tests. The project has been allocated ₹8.8 crore.
The course, jointly developed by industry and academic experts following National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 policy, will blend theory with hands-on training in device design, prototyping, manufacturing, quality testing, and validation during the first year. In the second year, students will undertake a year-long industry project to gain real-world experience.
This initiative is expected to produce skilled experts in medical device manufacturing, quality control, research, and development and support India’s vision of becoming a global hub for affordable, high-quality medical devices.