Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has revolutionized the landscape of fertility treatments in India, offering hope to countless couples struggling with infertility. The journey of ART in India is a tale of pioneering efforts, technological advancements, and changing societal attitudes.

The story began in 1978, just 67 days after the birth of the world’s first IVF baby, Louise Brown, when India welcomed its first IVF baby, Kanupriya (alias Durga), in Kolkata. This landmark achievement, led by Dr. Subhas Mukherjee, marked the dawn of ART in the country.

The 1980s and 1990s saw a steady rise in the number of IVF clinics across India, with advancements in techniques like gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT) and zygote intrafallopian transfer (ZIFT) further expanding the options for couples.

In the 2000s, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), a technique where a single sperm is directly injected into an egg, gained popularity, particularly for cases of male infertility. The introduction of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) allowed for the screening of embryos for genetic disorders before implantation, offering a significant step toward preventing inherited diseases.

Today, India boasts a thriving ART industry, with over 500 babies born every month in fertility clinics across the nation. The availability of various ART procedures, including IVF, ICSI, GIFT, ZIFT, and egg freezing, has made India a sought-after destination for couples seeking fertility treatments.

While ART has brought immense joy to many families, it has also faced ethical and regulatory challenges. The Indian government has established guidelines to regulate the practice of ART, ensuring ethical standards and protecting the rights of patients and donors.

Looking towards the future, ART in India is poised for further growth and innovation. Advancements in cryopreservation, genetic testing, and personalized medicine hold the promise of even more effective and accessible fertility treatments for couples across the country. The journey of ART in India continues to evolve, shaping the future of reproductive medicine and bringing hope to those who long for the joy of parenthood.