Medical devices PLI scheme invites fresh applications

Union government has invited fresh applications under the Production Linked Incentive scheme for promoting domestic manufacturing of medical devices (PLI-MD), with nearly ₹2,700 crore earmarked. An online portal is expected to be operational in the next 10 days, according to an official statement.

Launched in 2021-22, the scheme has been extended up to 2035-36. Applicants have three years to set up manufacturing facilities in any of four target segments: medical consumables, disposables and implants (TS1); critical components (TS2); high-end devices with nascent domestic manufacturing (TS3); and high-end devices currently only assembled in India (TS4). Tapering incentive rates will average around 5% for TS1, 9% for TS2 and TS3, and 6% for TS4.

Eligibility conditions and the process for claiming incentives have been simplified. The minimum sales threshold to claim an incentive has been discontinued, and the minimum investment requirement has been trimmed. Applicants may submit any number of applications in one or more target segments, and the application window will stay open continuously over a long period.