CDSCO License for Foetal cardiac monitor
Medical Device Information
Intended Use
Active device designed to detect, measure, and display foetal heart activity during the perinatal period

Comprehensive Guide to CDSCO Licensing for Foetal Cardiac Monitors (Class C Medical Device)
As a trusted regulatory consulting firm with over 25 years of experience and a track record of assisting 500+ companies in navigating CDSCO licensing, we understand the complex journey manufacturers and importers face when bringing advanced medical devices like the Foetal Cardiac Monitor to the Indian market.
The Foetal Cardiac Monitor is an active medical device designed to detect, measure, and display foetal heart activity during the perinatal period, classified under Class C risk according to the CDSCO framework. This device falls under the Obstetrical and Gynecological category and requires stringent regulatory compliance to ensure safety and efficacy.
CDSCO Regulatory Framework for Foetal Cardiac Monitors
India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) governs medical device regulation under the Medical Device Rules (MDR) 2017. The Foetal Cardiac Monitor, being a Class C device, demands central licensing authority oversight due to moderate to high risk associated with its use.
Regulatory compliance includes obtaining the MD9 manufacturing license (for domestic manufacturers) and/or the MD15 import license (for importers). Both licenses require submission through the CDSCO MD Online Portal, initiating a multi-step evaluation process involving testing, documentation, and audits.
Risk Classification and License Requirements for Foetal Cardiac Monitor
- Risk Class: C
- License for Manufacturing: MD9 (Application Form MD7) - Central Licensing Authority
- License for Import: MD15 (Application Form MD14) - Central Licensing Authority
Class C devices are considered moderate to high risk and hence require rigorous scrutiny, including product testing by government-approved laboratories and audits by CDSCO inspectors.
Manufacturing License Process (MD9) for Foetal Cardiac Monitors
The MD9 license process is comprehensive and typically spans 4 to 5 months:
- Test License (Form MD13): Before applying for MD9, manufacturers must obtain a test license valid for 1.5 to 2 months, allowing product testing.
- Product Testing: Samples must be tested in government-approved laboratories listed on the Testing Laboratories page to verify compliance with Essential Principles.
- Documentation Preparation: Assemble all technical and compliance documents.
- Application Submission: Submit Form MD7 with all requisite documents through the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- CDSCO Audit: Post-application, a CDSCO inspection assesses compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and QMS.
- Query Resolution: Address any queries from CDSCO or auditors promptly.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory review, the MD9 license is granted on Form MD9.
Manufacturing License Documents Required for MD9
- Company Constitution and Incorporation Certificate
- Proof of Ownership or Lease Agreement of Manufacturing Premises
- Details and Qualifications of Technical Staff
- Fire NOC and Pollution Control NOC
- Device Master File (DMF) detailing design, manufacturing, and specifications (Device Master File Guide)
- Plant Master File (PMF) documenting manufacturing environment and controls (Plant Master File Guide)
- Essential Principles Checklist demonstrating conformity to safety and performance requirements
- Risk Management File outlining hazard analysis and mitigation strategies (Risk Management)
- Product Test Reports from CDSCO-approved labs
- Product Labeling, Instructions for Use (IFU)
- Quality Management System (QMS) documentation compliant with ISO 13485:2016
Import License Process (MD15) for Foetal Cardiac Monitors
Importers must secure the MD15 license, which generally takes 5 to 6 months:
- Document Preparation: Collect all mandatory documents including manufacturing license from the country of origin.
- Application Submission: Apply through the CDSCO MD Online Portal using Form MD14.
- Evaluation and Queries: CDSCO evaluates the dossier; prompt responses to queries are essential.
- License Grant: Upon satisfactory assessment, the import license (Form MD15) is issued.
Import License Documents Required for MD15
- Valid Manufacturing License (MD9 or equivalent) from the manufacturing country
- Free Sale Certificate from the country of origin
- ISO 13485:2016 Certificate
- CE Certificate or equivalent conformity certificate
- Device Master File and Plant Master File
- Wholesale License (if applicable)
- Company Constitution and Incorporation Documents
Timeline and Processing Duration
Process Step | Duration |
---|---|
Test License (MD13) | 1.5 to 2 months |
Product Testing | 1 to 1.5 months |
Document Preparation | Concurrent with testing |
MD9 Application Review | 2 to 3 months |
CDSCO Inspection and Audit | Included in above |
MD15 Import License Review | 5 to 6 months total |
Government Fees and Costs
License Type | Application Fee | Per Product Fee | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
MD9 Manufacturing | INR 50,000 | INR 1,000 | Central Authority Fee |
MD15 Import | USD 3,000 | USD 1,500 | Central Authority Fee |
Note: Fees are subject to change; always verify latest on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
Common Challenges and Practical Solutions
- Delayed Testing Results: Schedule testing promptly after obtaining the test license to avoid delays.
- Incomplete Documentation: Use detailed checklists from our MD9 License Guide to ensure completeness.
- Audit Non-Compliance: Engage with certified notified bodies for pre-audit assessments. Refer to the List of Notified Bodies for authorized auditors.
- Query Management: Assign a dedicated regulatory affairs professional to respond promptly and precisely to CDSCO queries.
Expert Consultation and Support
Navigating the CDSCO licensing process for Class C devices like Foetal Cardiac Monitors requires meticulous planning and expert knowledge. Our team has facilitated over 500 successful license grants, providing end-to-end support from documentation to audit preparation.
We can assist with:
- Comprehensive gap analysis of your technical and QMS documentation
- Coordination for product testing at accredited laboratories
- Mock audits and compliance training
- Timely submission and query resolution through the online portal
Getting Started with Your CDSCO License Application
To initiate your journey towards CDSCO approval for Foetal Cardiac Monitors:
- Assess Device Classification: Confirm your device is Class C (Medical Device Classification).
- Prepare Test License Application: Apply for the test license (Form MD13) on the CDSCO MD Online Portal.
- Engage Testing Labs: Coordinate with CDSCO-approved testing labs early to schedule product evaluation.
- Compile Documentation: Use our detailed guides for Device Master File, Plant Master File, and Risk Management to prepare your dossier.
- Submit Manufacturing License Application: Once testing is complete, file Form MD7 with CDSCO.
- Prepare for Audit: Choose a notified body from the CDSCO Notified Bodies List and schedule your audit.
- For Importers: Gather import-specific documents and apply for MD15 license concurrently.
Our seasoned consultants stand ready to guide you through each step, ensuring a seamless licensing experience and faster time to market in India. Reach out today to leverage our expertise and transform your regulatory challenges into business opportunities.