Title:Overview of Provisions for Import of Medical Devices into India under Central Licensing Approval Authority (CLAA) Scheme and Medical Device Rules, 2017
VOLUME: 4 ISSUE: 3
Author(s):Rohin Sethi * and Harvinder Popli
Affiliation:Department of Drug Regulatory Affairs, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, Department of Drug Regulatory Affairs, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi
Keywords:CDSCO, CLAA, DCGI, import, medical device rules 2017, medical devices.
Abstract:Background: The Government of India regulates medical devices through a specialized
division called, Medical Device and Diagnostics Division, CDSCO, Min of Health and Family
Welfare. Earlier, only 14 categories of Medical Devices, called Notified Devices were regulated
under CLAA scheme for the purpose Manufacture, Import, Sale and Distribution. On 17th October
2016, a draft of rules, called Medical Device Rules, was published by Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare, in Official Gazette, for feedback from industry.
Objective: In this paper we would examine the provisions for import of Medical Devices under
CLAA scheme and Medical Device Rules, 2017 and make easier to grasp the regulatory system of
India for any manufacturer who wishes to enter Indian Market.
Discussion: After due consideration, the Medical Device Rules, 2017 were passed and set for implementation
by 1st January 2018. This will create a separate registration and oversight system for
drugs and medical devices. Drug Controller General of India would remain the Licensing Authority
for Import of devices under the new system. Indian Medical Device Industry is primarily import
oriented. Indian Market presently offers tremendous opportunities for high-end sophisticated
device manufacturers as most of the high end innovative products are imported into the country.
The import of medical devices for the year 2016, stood at $208,230.65 million.
