Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for the PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, and Space – Dr. Jitendra Singh – inaugurated a new Dental Technology Innovation Hub at the Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences (MAIDS) in Delhi. This facility has been established with backing from the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
During the inauguration, Dr. Singh described the hub as a key enhancement to the dental field’s capabilities, aligned with the government’s forward-looking science agenda. He emphasized that the centre would support cost-effective research, diagnostics, and therapy, helping reduce India’s reliance on imported dental devices and materials.
He also noted that the hub is structured to promote inclusivity—providing opportunities for innovators, start-ups, and MSMEs—and embodies the government’s “whole-of-nation” approach to innovation. Reflecting on past dependence on imported implants, Dr. Singh expressed pride in the country’s progress: Indian institutions are now producing synthetic and biodegradable dental materials that meet global standards.
He further highlighted that policy measures like the National Medical Devices Policy 2023 and the Medical Devices Rules 2017 have created a more enabling environment for advanced, affordable healthcare infrastructure nationwide. In his remarks, Dr. Singh spoke about the importance of awareness, accessibility, and affordability in healthcare, and called for greater public awareness of advanced dental care options.
Dr. Singh announced a substantial expansion in medical education seats—adding about 1,000 undergraduate and 5,000 postgraduate positions (including in dental sciences)—and acknowledged the vital role of collaboration between public and private sectors. He also reflected on the growing overlap between dentistry and other medical disciplines (for example, endocrinology, cardiovascular health, diabetes), and endorsed the integration of AI, engineering, and technology institutions to strengthen innovation. Looking ahead, he said the hub would help train the generation of dentists needed for a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.