CDSCO License for Applicator for esophagus remote after loading brachytherapy
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
A remote controlled brachytherapy applicator specifically designed for esophagus radiation therapy. It is designed to be temporarily implanted in the esophagus. It serves as a guide for computer-controlled temporary placement and removal of a single or multiple therapeutic radiation sources. This device group includes various applicators such as hollow needles, tubes, and catheters, as well as associated devices and connectors.

Comprehensive CDSCO Licensing Guide for Applicator for Esophagus Remote After Loading Brachytherapy (Class C)
Introduction: Understanding Your Device and Regulatory Importance
The Applicator for Esophagus Remote After Loading Brachytherapy is a specialized medical device used in radiotherapy to deliver targeted radiation treatment for esophageal cancer. This remote-controlled applicator is temporarily implanted into the esophagus and facilitates the precise placement and removal of therapeutic radiation sources, ensuring effective and safe cancer treatment.
Given the critical nature of this device, classified under Risk Class C by CDSCO, regulatory compliance is paramount. Adhering to CDSCO’s licensing framework not only ensures patient safety but also establishes market credibility and smooth entry into the Indian healthcare ecosystem.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Radiotherapy Devices (Class C Applicators)
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) governs the import, manufacture, and sale of medical devices in India. For Class C devices like your esophageal brachytherapy applicator, the regulatory process involves obtaining a Manufacturing License (MD9) and/or an Import License (MD15) from the Central Licensing Authority.
This framework mandates rigorous testing, documentation, and audits to validate the safety and efficacy of your device before market approval.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Your Device
The device falls under Class C, which includes devices with moderate to high risk, requiring strict regulatory scrutiny.
- Manufacturing license for Class C devices is obtained via the MD9 license (Form MD7), granted by the Central Licensing Authority.
- Import license must be secured through the MD15 license (Form MD14) process.
You can check detailed medical device classifications on our Medical Device Classification guide.
Manufacturing License Process for Class C Devices (MD9 License)
Securing an MD9 license involves several critical steps:
Test License Application (Form MD13): Before manufacturing, you must obtain a test license to produce the device for testing purposes. This takes approximately 1.5 to 2 months.
Product Testing: Samples must be tested at CDSCO-approved government laboratories. Refer to the list of CDSCO Testing Laboratories for authorized facilities.
Document Preparation: Compile comprehensive documentation, including Device Master File, Plant Master File, Risk Management File, Essential Principles Checklist, and more.
License Application (Form MD7): Submit the manufacturing license application via the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Audit by CDSCO Inspectors: A thorough audit evaluates your quality management system, manufacturing facility, and compliance with regulatory standards.
Queries Resolution: Address any observations or queries raised during the audit.
Grant of MD9 License: Upon successful compliance, CDSCO issues the manufacturing license (Form MD9).
The entire process typically spans 4 to 5 months from test license application to license grant.
For a detailed walkthrough, consult our MD9 License Guide.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for Applicators
For your Class C applicator, the following documents are mandatory:
- Company Constitution and Registration Proof
- Proof of Ownership or Lease of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualifications of Technical Staff
- Fire Safety and Pollution NOCs
- Device Master File (DMF): Detailed device specifications, design, manufacturing process. See our Device Master File Guide.
- Plant Master File (PMF): Information about manufacturing facility and quality systems. Refer to our Plant Master File Guide.
- Essential Principles Checklist confirming compliance with Indian regulatory standards
- Risk Management File demonstrating hazard analysis and mitigation measures. Learn about Risk Management here.
- Test Reports from CDSCO-approved laboratories
- Product Labels and Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System documentation (ISO 13485:2016 preferred)
Import License Process for Class C Devices (MD15 License)
Importing your applicator into India requires the following steps:
Document Preparation: Assemble required certificates including Manufacturing License, Free Sale Certificate, ISO 13485:2016, CE Certificate, Device and Plant Master Files.
License Application (Form MD14): Submit the import license application through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Queries and Clarifications: Respond promptly to any CDSCO queries.
Grant of MD15 License: CDSCO issues the import license upon satisfying all requirements.
The import license process generally takes 5 to 6 months.
For more information, visit our Import License Guide.
Import License Documents Required
- Valid Manufacturing License from country of origin
- Free Sale Certificate
- ISO 13485:2016 Certificate
- CE Certificate or equivalent
- Device Master File
- Plant Master File
- Wholesale Drug License (for distribution)
- Company Constitution and Registration Proof
Timeline and Processing Duration
License Type | Process Duration | Key Steps |
---|---|---|
MD9 Manufacturing | 4 to 5 months | Test license, testing, audit, queries |
MD15 Import | 5 to 6 months | Document prep, application, queries |
Planning ahead and maintaining timely communication with CDSCO can help avoid delays.
Government Fees and Costs
- MD9 License Fee: Rs 50,000 per application + Rs 1,000 per product
- MD15 Import License Fee:
- Class C & D: 1,500 per product
Additional costs include testing fees at government labs and audit charges.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
Challenge 1: Delays due to incomplete documentation.
Solution: Use detailed checklists and expert consultation to ensure all documents like Device Master Files and Risk Management Files are complete and compliant.
Challenge 2: Audit non-conformities.
Solution: Conduct pre-audit internal assessments and engage notified bodies early. Refer to the list of notified bodies for certified auditors.
Challenge 3: Testing delays at government labs.
Solution: Submit samples early and confirm lab availability in advance.
Expert Consultation and Support
With over 25 years of experience assisting more than 500 medical device companies, we specialize in CDSCO licensing for Class C devices like esophageal brachytherapy applicators. Our expert guidance covers:
- End-to-end application preparation
- Compliance auditing
- Liaison with CDSCO and notified bodies
- Risk management and QMS implementation
Partnering with seasoned consultants ensures a smoother regulatory journey and faster market access.
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To initiate your CDSCO licensing:
- Register on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Prepare and submit your Test License application (Form MD13).
- Schedule sample testing at an approved laboratory.
- Compile your Device and Plant Master Files, Risk Management File, and Essential Principles Checklist.
- Engage a notified body early to prepare for the audit.
- Submit your manufacturing license application (Form MD7) upon successful testing.
- For imports, gather all mandatory certificates and apply via Form MD14.
Taking these practical steps armed with expert support will position your applicator for successful market entry in India’s regulated medical device landscape.
For tailored assistance with CDSCO licensing for your esophagus remote after loading brachytherapy applicator, contact us to leverage our proven expertise and streamline your regulatory approval process.