India's IVF Boom: From Last Resort to Mainstream

India now performs an estimated 3-3.5 lakh IVF cycles annually, a dramatic increase from less than 1 lakh a decade ago. This surge, which places India at the forefront of the global infertility burden, is driven by a confluence of factors including changing lifestyles, a decline in social stigma, rising infertility rates, and significant technological progress.

The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act of 2021 has been a pivotal development, establishing a formal legal framework for IVF clinics. This legislation mandates online record submission for all ART procedures, enhancing transparency and accountability within the sector. Experts emphasize the need for independent auditing, standardized reporting of live birth rates, and stricter enforcement against unethical practices and misleading advertisements.

Advances in IVF technology, including AI-assisted embryo assessment and Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT), are significantly improving success rates. Despite ongoing challenges like reported IVF scams, the industry is formalizing, with over 4,000 registered clinics and a growing presence in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The cost of a basic IVF cycle typically ranges from ₹1.5-2.5 lakh.