India's first MRI scanner to be tested at AIIMS, may cut costs by 50%

By introducing the indigenous MRI machine, a quantum leap has now been initiated for India in the fields of healthcare and medical technology. The Made-in-India MRI scanner is set to be installed by October 2025 in AIIMS-Delhi to conduct clinical trials.

If the trial goes well, the new design will cut the costs of MRI scanning by 50% and will thus ensure affordable diagnostics for a greater population. This huge factor, in turn, would reduce dependence on foreign technology and will be able to provide highly efficient MRI solutions tailored for India.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is needed for detecting brain tumors, strokes, spinal injuries, and joint disorders. In the present moment, India imports all MRI machines, which, on the one hand, makes these machines extremely expensive and, on the other hand, makes the actual scan subject to a great range of ?5,000 to ?25,000. Encouragingly, the indigenous MRI machine intends to cut costs significantly so that these life-saving diagnostics can reach as many people as possible.

When it comes to high-end equipment like MRI scanners, ICU monitors, or surgical robots, India relies on imports. Therefore, creating an indigenous MRI system is one of the foremost steps taken toward the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) campaign that may save the nation crores on import costs and create more jobs and innovations. AIIMS Director M Srinivas noted that this project will go a long way in helping India advance the medical technology and infrastructure available to world standards.

The MRI machine is under development at SAMEER (Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering and Research) Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY). AIIMS-Delhi will carry out stringent trials to validate that the scanner conforms to international medical standards. The government is also preparing the safety regulations and approval procedures that will make India one of the key stakeholders in the global Medical Device Industry.

Dr. Gowri Kulkarni, Head of Medical Operations, MediBuddy said, "By reducing reliance on expensive imported machines, this innovation is set to lower MRI scan costs substantially, making advanced diagnostic imaging more accessible to a wider population. Affordable scans will encourage greater adoption across healthcare facilities, enabling more hospitals and diagnostic centres to offer MRI services, which in turn will lead to early and accurate diagnoses, improved treatment outcomes, and reduced pressure on tertiary care centres".

He added, "With a more affordable, locally manufactured scanner, district hospitals and health centres would be able to provide timely and accurate diagnoses, leading to better patient care. Domestic production will also ensure easier maintenance and uninterrupted operations".