In a groundbreaking achievement for Indian medical technology, SS Innovations, the pioneer behind the country’s first Indigenous surgical robotic system, SSI Mantra, has become the first and only Indian company to receive regulatory approval for Telesurgery and Teleproctoring from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). This historic milestone signifies a monumental leap in surgical robotics and reinforces India’s growing prominence as a global healthcare innovator.

The approval, which allows SSI Mantra to perform advanced surgical procedures remotely, is expected to revolutionize healthcare delivery, particularly in underserved regions. Telesurgery, once a futuristic concept imagined in the 1980s for use in space missions and remote battlefields, has faced decades of technological and infrastructural challenges. However, recent advancements in bandwidth and surgical technology have now brought this vision to life.  

“This achievement with SSI Mantra is a testament to our vision of transforming surgical practices, enhancing access, and driving the adoption of robotic surgery,” said Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of SS Innovations. “Telesurgery and Teleproctoring have been a dream in the making for over four decades, and today, it has finally come to life. With the technology and bandwidth available now, we can truly decentralize and democratize surgical expertise, reaching patients and surgeons in the most remote parts of India and the world.”  

The SSI Mantra system is designed to address critical healthcare gaps by decentralizing specialized surgical care. By allowing expert surgeons to perform operations remotely, the technology enables patients in smaller towns and rural areas to access advanced medical expertise that was previously out of reach. Furthermore, Teleproctoring allows experienced surgeons to mentor and guide less experienced practitioners in real-time, fostering skill development and ensuring consistent quality of care.  

The SSI Mantra Surgical Robotic System offers several state-of-the-art features, including modular multi-arm configurations, ergonomic surgeon command centers, and advanced imaging capabilities. Equipped with a 32-inch 3D 4K monitor and a vision cart providing a magnified view to the surgical team, it ensures safety and precision. With over 40 robotic endo-surgical instruments, it is versatile enough for use in various specialties, including cardiac surgery.  

The system’s affordability and adaptability distinguish it on the global stage. Unlike many international competitors, SSI Mantra is cost-effective, making it a viable solution for India’s healthcare needs while also appealing to global markets. The short learning curve and user-friendly design further enhance its accessibility to surgeons

SS Innovations, which is registered with the United States SEC, has emphasized its commitment to democratizing healthcare. “This innovation is a game-changer, especially for our country, where much of the population lives in smaller towns and rural areas,” added Dr. Srivastava

The CDSCO approval is more than a national triumph; it positions India as a global leader in surgical robotics. As SS Innovations pushes the boundaries of medical technology, it underscores the transformative potential of Indigenous innovation. The company’s achievements also reflect India’s growing capacity for delivering cutting-edge solutions to global challenges.