Govt permits import of 17 critical medical devices to provide relief to COVID patients

Government has expedited the process of import of critical medical devices amid the growing demands due to Covid-19 pandemic situation in the country. In this connection, the Union Government has permitted importers to import 17 medical devices required to provide relief to the Covid patients.

Relief has been given to import and expedite custom clearances. Under the new provision the mandatory declarations will have to be furnished by the importers after speedy custom clearance. This will avoid delay in shipment of essential medical equipment due to procedural reasons.

An order issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs yesterday will remain in force for three months. The permission has been granted for the import of nebulizers, oxygen concentrators, CPAP and BIPAP devices, Vacuum Pressure Swing Absorption, Pressure Swing Absorption, Oxygen Plants, Cryogenic Oxygen Air Separation Unit. In addition to these, permission has also been granted to import of oxygen canister, oxygen filling systems, oxygen cylinders including cryogenic cylinders, ventilators among others.

The Department has directed that the importers shall inform all such imports to the officials in the state where the import will be made. The Department said the decision has been taken in view of the steep demands of medical devices due to emergent health concerns and immediate supply to the medical industry.