Indigenous MRI Technology Developed in Bengaluru
In a significant boost to India’s medical technology and diagnostics ecosystem, Bengaluru-based start-up VoxelGrids has developed the country’s first fully indigenous MRI scanner . The achievement represents a decisive step towards reducing India’s reliance on imported high-end diagnostic equipment and advancing self-reliance in healthcare technology under the Make in India vision.
Twelve-Year Journey to Medical Imaging Independence
The newly developed 1.5-tesla MRI scanner has been installed at the Chandrapur Cancer Care Foundation near Nagpur , marking its first clinical deployment. The project is the culmination of nearly 12 years of research and development led by VoxelGrids founder Arjun Arunachalam , who sought to design an MRI system manufactured entirely within India — a domain traditionally dominated by multinational corporations.
Cost-Reducing Innovation Without Liquid Helium
A key innovation of the scanner is the elimination of liquid helium , a critical and costly component in conventional MRI systems. By adopting alternative cooling and magnet management technologies, VoxelGrids has reduced manufacturing costs by around 40 per cent . The scanner also features compact electronics, improved energy efficiency and a standard bore size, helping lower both installation and operating expenses.
Expanding Access Through New Business Models
To improve affordability, the company plans to introduce pay-per-use pricing , allowing hospitals to avoid large upfront investments. This model could significantly benefit smaller hospitals and diagnostic centres, particularly in underserved regions. India currently has only about 3.5 MRI scanners per million people , highlighting a substantial diagnostic infrastructure gap.
Manufacturing Scale and Future Roadmap
VoxelGrids’ Bengaluru facility can produce 20–25 MRI units annually . Supported by $5 million in funding from Zoho , the start-up aims for a full commercial rollout by the end of the financial year. Future plans include mobile MRI units and exports after meeting domestic demand.
Important Facts for Exams
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MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves for imaging
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India imports most high-end medical devices
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Liquid helium is a major cost in MRI systems
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Indigenous medtech boosts healthcare self-reliance
Month: Current Affairs - December 29, 2025
Category: Healthcare Infrastructure