“Scheme for Strengthening the Medical Device Industry " has been launched

Current Context: The Scheme for Strengthening the Medical Device Industry, launched by the Indian government on November 8, 2024, is designed to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependency on imports in the medical device sector.

• The scheme comes with an initial outlay of Rs 500 crore for three years and aims to support various aspects of the industry, including:
• Boosting Domestic Manufacturing: Encouraging local production to ensure self-reliance in medical devices.
• Reducing Import Dependency: Aiming to minimize reliance on imported medical devices by fostering innovation and development within the country.
• Supporting Clinical Studies: Funding and facilitating clinical research to ensure that new devices are safe and effective.
• Skill Development: Providing training and development opportunities to build a skilled workforce in the medical device sector.
• Infrastructure Development: Investing in the infrastructure required for the growth and advancement of the industry, such as testing and certification facilities.
• This initiative is part of the broader "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) mission, which aims to make India a global hub for medical device manufacturing and innovation.

Question:

1 What is the total initial outlay for the Scheme for Strengthening the Medical Device Industry?

• A) Rs 500 crore
• B) Rs 250 crore
• C) Rs 250 crore
• D) Rs 1000 crore

Answer: A) The scheme has been allocated an initial outlay of Rs 500 crore for three years, which will fund initiatives supporting local manufacturing, infrastructure, and skill development in the medical device sector.