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The Economic Times India - Healthcare - Recent Medical Updates

Aster DM Healthcare to invest Rs 480 cr to set up new hospital in Bengaluru
Aster DM Healthcare will invest Rs 480 crore to establish a 430-bed multispecialty hospital in Sarjapur, Bengaluru. The hospital, spanning 4 lakh sq ft, will be developed in two phases, with 300 beds operational by the second half of FY27 and the remaining 130 beds by FY29.


Manipal, IHH, EQT & others eye Sahyadri Hospitals in Rs 5,000 crore bidding war
Manipal Hospitals, IHH Healthcare, and Blackstone-owned Quality Care India are among the frontrunners vying for Sahyadri Hospitals, Maharashtra's largest hospital chain, with bids ranging from ₹4,500-5,000 crore. Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board is divesting the chain amid a wave of PE-led consolidation in India's rapidly growing healthcare sector, which is witnessing significant investment and expansion.


With weight-loss drugs, going under the knife may lose edge
The introduction of weight-loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy in India may lead to a decrease in bariatric surgeries as obese individuals with a BMI of 30-35 may opt for drugs first. While surgeries can result in 70-80% weight loss, drugs offer a less invasive option, though potentially less effective at 15-20%.


Aster DM Healthcare completes acquisition of 5% stake in Quality Care India through share swap
Aster DM Healthcare has finalized the acquisition of a 5% stake in Quality Care India Ltd (QCIL) through a share swap with BCP Asia II TopCo IV Pte Ltd and Centella Mauritius Holdings Limited. This acquisition marks the initial phase of the strategic merger between Aster DM Healthcare and Quality Care India.


Max Healthcare lines up Rs 6,000 crore for expansion
Max Healthcare is set to invest ₹6,000 crore over the next three years to expand its network, aiming to reach 25 hospitals by 2025. The expansion includes new facilities in Saket, Nanavati, Mohali, and Gurugram, with a recent inauguration of a 300-bed hospital in Dwarka.


Max Healthcare Institute to invest Rs 6,000 cr to add 3,700 beds by 2028
Max Healthcare will invest Rs 6,000 crore by 2028 to add 3,700 beds across India, increasing its facilities to around 30 hospitals. The expansion, funded internally, includes the recent inauguration of a 300-bed hospital in Dwarka, Delhi, and upcoming facilities in Mohali, Mumbai, and Saket. The company remains open to acquisitions beyond its organic growth plans.


Medanta to invest Rs 500 cr to set up 400-bed hospital in Guwahati
Global Health, known for its Medanta hospitals, is set to invest approximately Rs 500 crore in establishing a 400-bed super speciality hospital in Guwahati, Assam. The board has approved the land purchase for Rs 30 crore. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare infrastructure, offering advanced medical care across 20 specialities to over 50 million people in Assam and neighboring states.


Get evergreening patent requests very often, these benefit select few cos: Piyush Goyal
Piyush Goyal stated that India frequently receives requests to extend pharmaceutical patents for minor modifications. He criticized this practice, known as 'evergreening,' for prioritizing corporate profits over global healthcare access. Goyal highlighted Ayushman Bharat scheme, providing free healthcare to over 620 million people. He emphasized India's commitment to healthcare driven by compassion, not profit.


Reckitt Benckiser's rare reflection: India a big growth driver
Reckitt Benckiser's CEO, Kris Licht, highlighted India as a key growth driver, anticipating sustained strong volume growth alongside China. The company's success is fueled by strong organic performance in germ protection (Dettol) and intimate wellness (Durex). Reckitt's strategic alignment with India's public health goals has deepened market penetration.


Drugs panel considering proposal to rein in sale of OTC medicines to prevent misuse
India's drug advisory board is considering restricting over-the-counter medication sales to prevent misuse and ensure patient safety. The proposal limits OTC sales to 27 drugs, including antipyretics and painkillers, with dosage and quantity restrictions. The board aims to increase accessibility while ensuring patient safety by excluding several currently available drugs and recommending smaller pack sizes for safe use.


Pharma & healthcare deals see shifting focus on scalable, global models: Grant Thornton Bharat
India's pharma and healthcare sector demonstrates resilient investor interest, marked by a 34% year-on-year increase in deal volumes and a 326% surge in values for Q1 2025. Despite a slight quarterly dip due to macroeconomic factors, high-value deals are on the rise, particularly in M&A and PE activity, signaling confidence in scalable models and strategic acquisitions.


India faces a silent cervical cancer crisis: Every 8 minutes, a woman dies, but HPV vaccine and early screening could prevent it
The National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) has recommended categorising cancer as a notifiable disease to improve prevention and treatment in India. The organisation emphasised the importance of indigenous HPV tests and vaccines in cancer screening, alongside strengthening diagnostic infrastructure. Key recommendations include early detection, timely treatment, and a national cancer screening programme to reduce mortality rates, particularly from cervical and breast cancer.


Shivinder Mohan Singh moves NCLT, files plea for personal insolvency
Shivinder Mohan Singh, the former Fortis Healthcare promoter, has sought personal insolvency before the NCLT, citing liabilities exceeding assets. Facing a Rs 3,500 crore recovery to Daiichi Sankyo, Singh's assets are largely attached or devalued due to litigation and mismanagement within RHC Holding.


Centre pushes for 'one nation, one swap transplant' system to boost kidney donations
India is set to promote kidney swap transplants nationwide, aiming to increase transplant numbers by up to 15%. Following a directive from NOTTO, states and union territories are encouraged to implement swap transplants, a practice already recognized but underutilized. The initiative includes a standardized document list and the potential creation of a national swap registry.


Yoga vs Strengthening exercises: Which is better for knee osteoarthritis? Study reveals surprising results
A recent study indicates yoga is as effective as strengthening exercises for managing knee osteoarthritis, offering improvements in pain, quality of life, and depression. Experts highlight yoga's comprehensive approach, addressing mental health, balance, and joint mobility. Both yoga and resistance training achieve similar physiological goals through different methods, promoting synovial fluid circulation and reducing joint pressure.


Govt bans select cough syrups for kids below 4 years
The government has prohibited cough syrups containing chlorpheniramine maleate and phenylephrine hydrochloride for children under four due to safety concerns. Drug regulators are mandating manufacturers to include explicit warnings on labels and packaging. This decision follows recommendations from India's apex drug body after examining the fixed-dose combination.


Assam govt plans to transform GMCH into one of India's largest hospitals
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma is undertaking steps to transform Gauhati Medical College and Hospital into one of India's largest. The upcoming Mother and Child Care Hospital on GMCH premises will offer specialized pediatric care with 800 beds.


Delhi HC seeks Daiichi Sankyo’s response on RHC appeal over Fortis trademark sale
The Delhi High Court is reviewing RHC Healthcare's challenge to the 'Fortis' trademark sale to Fortis Healthcare, alleging undervaluation. RHC seeks an independent valuation, claiming the Rs 200 crore sale was based on an erroneous report by Daiichi Sankyo. While the court didn't halt the sale, further actions regarding the Fortis brand are subject to the appeal's outcome.


India's healthcare expenditure expected to surge from 3.3% to 5% of its GDP by 2030: CareEdge
India’s healthcare spending is projected to rise from 3.3% to 5% of GDP by 2030, according to a CareEdge report. The sector is poised for major transformation driven by investments, government initiatives, and demographic shifts.


Healthcare investors go for full-body check-up: Forensic due diligence rise as sector faces scrutiny
Investors are increasingly scrutinizing India's healthcare sector, including pharma companies and hospitals, due to concerns about potential malpractices and regulatory scrutiny. They are conducting in-depth due diligence, examining doctor-management relationships, referral practices, and the appropriateness of treatments. This heightened scrutiny is driven by negative consumer feedback and stricter regulations, prompting companies to enhance employee background screening.


India's anti-obesity drug market has grown more than fourfold in the last five years
India's anti-obesity drug market has surged, growing over fourfold in five years, reaching ₹576 crore by March 2025, driven by lifestyle diseases and increased affordability. Semaglutide, particularly Rybelsus from Novo Nordisk, dominates the market, accounting for 69% of sales. The introduction of Mounjaro by Eli Lilly has further fueled acceptance, with Novo Nordisk planning to launch Wegovy soon.


As Empagliflozin goes off patent, 71 copies of the key diabetes drug roll out in a month
Following the expiration of Empagliflozin's patent, the Indian pharmaceutical market has seen a surge, with 71 new brands and 17 companies introducing their versions. This influx has significantly increased sales, driven by prices that are 80-90% lower than the original. The increased affordability is expected to improve access for a wider population, with further market expansion anticipated.


PE firms bet on small-town hospitals for a growth shot
Non-metro locations, such as Lucknow , Vizag, Jaipur, Cochin, Siliguri, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar and Patna, private equity investors believe, hold great growth potential in healthcare, in lockstep with an increasing affordability quotient in tier- 2 or 3 towns, and a greater availability of qualified doctors and specialists.


Do health insurers get the benefit of charging higher policy premiums? Experts say there's more than meets the eye
India's health insurance sector is experiencing a paradox; while premium collections have soared by 20%, new policyholder growth lags at 5%. Rising premiums, linked to medical inflation and increased claim sizes, deter renewals and new sign-ups, complicating affordability and access.


Govt plans capacity building activities for frontline workers of HPV vaccination
The Union Health Ministry plans to initiate capacity-building activities for frontline workers administering the HPV vaccine to girls aged 9-14 years to prevent cervical cancer. Following recommendations, the Ministry is finalizing strategies for this initiative. India accounts for a significant portion of global cervical cancer cases, with the vaccines aimed at addressing this major health issue.


Indians are quitting the safety net of health insurance; GST and high premiums are only part of the problem
Rising health insurance premiums and frequent claim rejections have led more Indians to drop their coverage. Despite the introduction of GST and government schemes, escalating costs leave many struggling to afford insurance, prompting calls for regulatory reforms to stabilize healthcare expenses.


Kerala launches digital payment system, online services in govt hospitals
Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced the introduction of digital payment systems in 313 government hospitals to facilitate various service fee transactions. This system, part of the e-health initiative, employs POS devices from State Bank of India and Canara Bank, and includes capabilities such as the M-Health app and QR code-based ticket booking.


People Tree Hospital Secures 25 Million USD (₹220 Crores) Investment from BlackRock to Expand Existing Capacity to 400 Beds
People Tree Hospital secures a ₹220 crore ($25M) investment from BlackRock to expand to 400 beds, enhancing super-specialty and oncology care in Bengaluru


Major blow! Trump slaps 27% tariff on medical device sector, industry on edge
US President Donald Trump has imposed a 27% reciprocal tariff on Indian medical device exports, challenging the sector's growth. Indian export figures stood at $714.38 million compared to $1,519.94 million in imports from the U.S., raising concerns over competitiveness and regulatory barriers.


Fortis healthcare buys disputed Fortis trademark for Rs 200 crore
Fortis Healthcare has acquired the Fortis trademark from its former promoters, the Singh brothers, for Rs. 200 crore through a court-sanctioned auction. The trademark was involved in a litigation case with Japan's Daiichi Sankyo. Fortis Healthcare, now owned by IHH Healthcare, operates a network of 26 hospitals nationwide.


360 ONE, Claypond Capital get CCI nod to acquire stakes in API Holdings
Fair trade regulator CCI has approved 360 ONE and Claypond Capital Partners' joint proposal to acquire stakes in API Holdings. This transaction involves purchasing compulsorily convertible preference shares from MEMG Family Office LLP, indicating oversight to prevent unfair business practices and ensure fair competition.


Ankura Hospitals secures Rs 165 cr funding from ADB
Ankura Hospitals has secured Rs 165 crore in funding from the Asian Development Bank. This strategic investment will enhance its pediatric, maternity, and gynecology services, enabling the Hyderabad-based chain to expand its facilities and strengthen its presence in key cities across India.


KKR in talks to acquire US dental labs chain Leixir
Global investment firm KKR is in talks to acquire Leixir Dental Laboratory Group from Comvest Investment Partners at a valuation of $200-$250 million. Leixir, founded in 2013, offers various dental solutions and operates facilities in the US and India. Deloitte is advising on the sale process.


From AI to Telemedicine: Digital skills every healthcare professional should learn
Digital skills are crucial for healthcare professionals, with growing fields like telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and data analytics. Continuous learning in electronic health records, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like 3D printing and robotics is vital for those seeking to stay relevant and succeed in the evolving healthcare landscape.


Eli Lilly working on a heart drug that may benefit Indians: CEO David Ricks
Eli Lilly is developing a groundbreaking drug, lepodisiran, to combat high LPA cholesterol levels prevalent in South Asians, potentially reducing it by 85%-90%. With heart disease cases surging in India, this phase 3 trial drug promises significant cardiovascular benefits, requiring only once-a-year administration. It's crucial, given the rising heart ailments in the region.


Donor aid cuts may undo years of progress in combating HIV: Study
US President Trump's decision to suspend USAID programmes and fund cuts by other countries could lead to 10.8 million new HIV infections and 2.9 million HIV-related deaths by 2030 in low-and-middle-income countries. Major donor funding cuts may reverse decades of progress against HIV/AIDS, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and among vulnerable populations.


Open to tie-ups in India for selling Mounjaro: Eli Lilly CEO David Ricks
Eli Lilly is exploring partnerships with Indian pharma firms to market its anti-diabetes and weight loss drug Mounjaro, recently launched in India. Priced significantly lower than in the US, Mounjaro's introduction anticipates strong demand in the country with over 100 million obese and diabetic individuals.


India develops its first indigenous MRI machine, to reduce treatment costs
India has developed its first indigenous MRI machine to be installed at AIIMS Delhi by October for trials, reducing dependency on imports by 80-85%. An MoU was signed with SAMEER for the installation. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is spearheading this technological advancement aimed at achieving self-reliance in medical technology.


Meghalaya’s Gnanamma Healthcare Centre transitions to near net-zero electricity health facility
Gnanamma Healthcare Centre in Jaidoh, West Khasi Hills celebrates its transition to a near net-zero electricity facility with a new 6.05kW solar plant and battery energy storage. This upgrade ensures reliable power, especially for critical services like vaccine storage and emergency care, reducing carbon emissions and setting an example for sustainable healthcare in the region.


Heartening news: Device made in India to help transplant patients
India plans to develop cost-effective left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) to aid end-stage heart failure patients while they wait for donor hearts. With an estimated 50,000 patients needing heart transplants annually but a severe shortage of donor hearts, indigenously made LVADs could reduce costs and increase foreign medical visitors. Development could take over five years with necessary approvals.


'Metropolis healthcare plans to acquire 2-3 cos every year': Ameera Shah
Metropolis Healthcare plans to acquire 2-3 cos annually to boost its presence in northern and eastern India. The firm aims to enhance its specialty testing business, focusing on various medical fields. The acquisitions will be funded by internal accruals, leveraging their debt-free status. Future growth includes expanding lab networks and using advanced diagnostics technology.


India has a chance to lead in health space amid Global North's funding cuts: Gates Foundation CEO Mark Suzman
Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation, sees the current global funding challenges as an opportunity for India to lead, particularly in health and development. Amid funding cuts from the US, UK, and France, Suzman remains optimistic about mobilizing resources for life-saving initiatives, highlighting India's cost-effective innovations.


Impose safeguard duties on medical devices: AiMeD
The Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) has requested the government to impose safeguard duties on 12 medical device categories to shield domestic manufacturers from cheap imports. AiMeD highlighted a significant increase in imports, notably in syringes and needles, primarily from China, the US, and Singapore.


AI, teleconsultation, modern tech being used in treatment, diagnosis: Nadda
Health Minister JP Nadda emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare through policies incorporating AI for TB detection, modern cancer treatments, and mental health teleconsultation. The goal is to increase health expenditure to 2.5% of GDP, currently at 1.84%, showcasing substantial achievements in improving maternal and child mortality rates.


Entero Healthcare launches HealthEdge programme for chemists
Entero Healthcare Solutions launched the 'HealthEdge' program to modernise retail pharmacies and improve efficiency for over 86,000 chemists. The company also acquired the Aayu Chemist app and Medcords platform, aimed at enhancing profits and customer engagement. Entero reported significant revenue and profit growth in FY 2025 Q3.


India weighs lower tariffs for US medical devices amid trade talks
The Indian government is considering lowering tariffs on US medical devices to mitigate potential US tariff threats on Indian exports. While this aims to ease trade tensions, industry experts express concerns about the impact on India's self-reliance. Stakeholders suggest reciprocal market access as Indian exporters face high regulatory barriers in the US.


Gene therapy for blood cancer shows 73 per cent response rate in clinical trials
Researchers, including those from the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay and Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, said in low and middle-income countries, patients in whom 'B-cell' tumours continue to grow following a period of remission (relapse), or do not respond to treatment (refractory), suffer from poor outcomes due to an absence of effective therapies.


AIIMS critically short of staff amid land & budgetary issues
AIIMS in New Delhi is experiencing severe staff shortages, with hundreds of vacant posts for doctors and faculty members. A parliamentary committee has urged the health ministry to offer competitive compensation and prioritize the filling of these positions. Additionally, the slow progress of AIIMS' expansion projects has been criticized.


Skin cream, nasal spray, and... blindness? AIIMS doctors warn steroids misuse could trigger silent vision loss
Frequent use of steroid-based treatments for respiratory issues, allergies, and skin conditions can heighten the risk of glaucoma. Experts at AIIMS stress the importance of regular eye check-ups for early detection. Lifelong care and awareness programs at the primary care level are essential for preserving vision.


Struggling with dry eyes? Haldi's power-packed compound might be the relief you need
A study by AIIMS reveals that bio-enhanced curcumin, found in turmeric (haldi), effectively treats mild to moderate dry eye disease by improving tear stability and reducing inflammation. The clinical trial showed significant improvements in tear metrics and symptoms, suggesting a natural, side-effect-free alternative treatment.