India Genetic Testing Market Outlook 2030

India Genetic Testing Market Overview

• The India genetic testing market, valued at USD 206.9 million, is driven primarily by the growing demand for personalized medicine and increased awareness of preventive healthcare. The integration of advanced technologies, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), has significantly expanded the scope and efficiency of genetic testing services. Moreover, government initiatives promoting early diagnosis of genetic disorders and research investments in genomics have further fueled the market's expansion.

• Cities such as Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad dominate the India genetic testing market. These urban hubs benefit from the presence of highly specialized hospitals, research institutes, and diagnostic centers, which have access to cutting-edge technologies and skilled professionals. Additionally, these cities have stronger healthcare infrastructure and higher patient awareness levels, allowing them to serve a broader range of services, particularly for advanced diagnostic and preventive care solutions.
• Under the National Health Mission (NHM), the Indian government has prioritized maternal and child healthcare, focusing on preventing genetic disorders through early screening programs. In 2022, the NHM introduced prenatal genetic screening for conditions like Down syndrome and thalassemia in public hospitals. The mission has improved access to genetic testing in government healthcare institutions, especially for economically disadvantaged populations. As of 2023, this initiative had reached over 27 million women and newborns, providing early diagnosis and better management of genetic conditions.

India Genetic Testing Market Segmentation

By Test Type: The Indias genetic testing market is segmented by test type into diagnostic testing, carrier testing, predictive and presymptomatic testing, prenatal and newborn screening, and pharmacogenomics. Diagnostic testing holds a dominant market share due to its widespread application in identifying hereditary disorders and diseases. The increased demand for early diagnosis of genetic disorders and personalized healthcare solutions has significantly driven the adoption of diagnostic tests across hospitals and specialized clinics.

By Application: The genetic testing market includes oncology, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, and rare diseases. Oncology has emerged as a leading application area, driven by the growing importance of personalized cancer treatment. The use of genetic testing in oncology for identifying cancer-causing mutations and predicting treatment responses has made it a crucial tool in precision medicine, particularly for cancers such as breast, ovarian, and lung cancer.

India Genetic Testing Market Competitive Landscape

The India genetic testing market is dominated by a few key players, most of whom are focused on developing advanced genetic testing solutions and expanding their testing portfolios. The market consolidation reflects the influence of companies that are heavily involved in personalized medicine, genomics research, and preventive healthcare.

India Genetic Testing Market Analysis

Market Growth Drivers

• Increased Demand for Preventive Healthcare: The increasing demand for preventive healthcare is driving the adoption of genetic testing in India, as more people become aware of genetic predispositions to diseases. World Bank data shows that India's healthcare spending has seen a consistent increase, which reflects a growing focus on healthcare services. This surge in healthcare investment is contributing to higher demand for genetic testing services, especially for preventive care. Moreover, genetic disorders like thalassemia and Down syndrome, which affect millions in India, are emphasizing the need for early diagnostics through genetic testing.
• Government Initiatives Supporting Genetic Testing: The Indian government has launched several initiatives to promote genetic testing as part of its focus on improving healthcare outcomes. The Ayushman Bharat scheme, which covers over 500 million people, includes provisions for genetic testing to improve disease prevention. Additionally, the National Health Policy of 2017 has emphasized the importance of genetic research and diagnostics, further promoting the growth of this sector. As of 2023, government healthcare expenditure stood at INR 5.34 lakh crore ($65.8 billion), fostering a supportive environment for the genetic testing market.
• Rising Prevalence of Genetic Disorders: India faces a significant burden of genetic disorders, affecting around 70 million individuals, as per the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Conditions such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia are prevalent, with about 10,000 babies born annually with these disorders. The rising prevalence is increasing the demand for genetic testing to facilitate early diagnosis and management. This growing need for genetic services is expected to reshape the healthcare landscape as the country continues to prioritize advanced diagnostics for genetic diseases.

Market Challenges:

• High Cost of Genetic Testing: Despite technological advancements, the high cost of genetic testing remains a challenge for widespread adoption in India. Currently, the cost of comprehensive genetic tests ranges from INR 10,000 to INR 50,000 ($120 to $600), making it inaccessible for a large portion of the population. While the government is working to make healthcare more affordable, the current per capita healthcare expenditure in India, at approximately $73 in 2022, remains insufficient to cover such expensive diagnostic services for most individuals.
• Lack of Adequate Skilled Workforce: The availability of skilled geneticists and laboratory technicians is crucial to support the genetic testing market. However, India faces a shortage of trained professionals, with an estimated 10,000 genetic counselors needed by 2025, according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Currently, there are fewer than 500 practicing genetic counselors in India, which limits the accessibility and efficiency of genetic testing services. This shortage poses a challenge for the expansion of genetic testing facilities and services across the country.

India Genetic Testing Market Future Outlook

Over the next five years, the India genetic testing market is expected to experience substantial growth driven by advancements in genomics, increased accessibility to healthcare services, and growing demand for personalized medicine. The introduction of AI-powered diagnostic tools, alongside government initiatives promoting genetic research, will further catalyze market expansion. Additionally, as healthcare infrastructure in Tier-II and Tier-III cities develops, the market is likely to witness a broader adoption of genetic testing services across the country.

Market Opportunities:

• Integration of AI and Data Analytics in Testing: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics in genetic testing is emerging as a key opportunity in India. AI-driven genetic testing platforms are helping in the analysis of complex genetic data with greater accuracy and speed. In 2023, Indias AI healthcare sector saw an investment of over $400 million, as reported by NASSCOM, boosting capabilities in precision medicine and genetic research. AI-powered tools are enhancing the interpretation of genetic tests, allowing for personalized treatment plans and better disease management. This technological shift is expected to drive the genetic testing market forward.
• Cross-Border Collaborations for Research and Development: Cross-border collaborations between Indian genetic research institutes and international organizations are opening new avenues for genetic testing. In 2022, India signed several agreements with global healthcare organizations to enhance research and development in genetics, contributing to advancements in the sector. For instance, India's partnership with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the USA has facilitated joint research on genetic disorders prevalent in the Indian subcontinent. These collaborations provide access to cutting-edge technology and research, fostering innovation and growth in the genetic testing market.