Exploring role, actions, and influence of industry associations in politics of health innovation in India

Abstract This paper explores the politics related to the development of innovative healthcare technology industries in low-middle-income countries. The focus is on industry associations’ role, influence, and actions in the development of the Indian medical device industry. Our analysis highlights a critical role in shaping the government’s industrial and regulatory policies, promoting entrepreneurship and bridging knowledge gaps between the government and the health industry. We also reveal differences inherent in industry associations' politics and public policy agendas, which lead to a generative ‘dance’ of cooperation and competition, creating positive public policy contestations and coalitions, but can also cause some detrimental impact on development outcomes. However, the ability of industry associations to reduce transaction costs makes them an indispensable part of innovation systems and impactful actors in health politics.