Mumbai – In a significant step towards expanding access to fertility care, King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital in Parel has reintroduced in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services after a four-decade hiatus. The newly established MA IVF Excellence Centre, a public-private partnership, aims to provide affordable fertility treatment to approximately 600 patients annually, at a cost significantly lower than private clinics.
The revival of IVF services at KEM Hospital marks a return to its pioneering role in reproductive medicine. The hospital achieved a historic milestone in 1986 with the birth of India’s first officially documented test-tube baby, delivered by Dr. Indira Hinduja. However, due to challenges with infrastructure, trained personnel, and sustained funding, IVF services were not continued at scale. This new centre seeks to address those gaps and make fertility treatment more accessible to a wider population.
The MA IVF Excellence Centre was inaugurated on February 23, 2026, by Maharashtra’s Public Health and Family Welfare Minister Prakash Abitkar, with Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde as well in attendance. The initiative is the result of a collaboration between KEM Hospital and the Malpani Infertility Clinic, spearheaded by Dr. Anjali Malpani and Dr. Aniruddha Malpani, both alumni of the hospital. According to the hospital, the cost of IVF treatment at the new centre will be approximately ₹40,000–₹50,000 per cycle, substantially lower than the ₹2–3 lakh typically charged by private clinics.
Dr. Anjali Malpani, reflecting on her time as a resident doctor at KEM in 1986, explained the motivation behind the project. “I resolved then to master assisted reproductive technologies and make them accessible in India,” she said. “After 40 years, that dream has come full circle. Giving back to my alma mater is a matter of pride.” Dr. Malpani has personally contributed to the birth of 17,000 children through her work globally.
A Public-Private Partnership for Affordable Care
The establishment of the MA IVF Excellence Centre is based on a public-private partnership model, designed to leverage the expertise and resources of both KEM Hospital and Malpani Infertility Clinic. This collaboration allows for the provision of advanced fertility treatments at a reduced cost, making them accessible to middle- and lower-income families who may otherwise be unable to afford such care. Minister Abitkar praised the Malpani couple’s commitment to social responsibility, stating that their dedication serves as an example for younger generations.
Mayor Tawde described the facility as a “proud milestone” for Mumbai’s public healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of making parenthood attainable for more couples. Dr. Sangeeta Rawat, Hospital Dean, highlighted that infertility is not merely a medical issue but also carries significant emotional and social weight, and that addressing the financial barriers to treatment is crucial.
KEM Hospital’s Legacy in Reproductive Medicine
KEM Hospital’s history with IVF dates back to the 1980s, when the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology first offered these services. The hospital’s initial success in delivering India’s first test-tube baby established it as a pioneer in the field. However, the program was discontinued due to logistical and financial constraints. The reopening of the IVF centre represents a restoration of that legacy and a renewed commitment to providing comprehensive reproductive healthcare.
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at KEM Hospital is known for its high workload and competitive residency program. The department handles approximately 50,000 outpatient visits and 12,000 inpatient admissions annually, with around 4,000 surgeries performed each year. Approximately 7,000 women deliver at the centre annually, many with high-risk pregnancies. The department also provides comprehensive contraceptive services and facilities for medical termination of pregnancy.
The new centre is equipped with a state-of-the-art IVF lab, reflecting a significant investment in infrastructure and technology. This upgrade will enable the hospital to offer a full range of fertility treatments, including IVF, to a larger number of patients.
As KEM Hospital embarks on this new chapter in reproductive healthcare, the focus remains on providing accessible and affordable treatment options for couples seeking to start a family. The MA IVF Excellence Centre is poised to become a vital resource for those navigating the challenges of infertility in Mumbai and beyond.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about medical advancements and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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