MSMEs to Leap Ahead with this Innovation

In a major breakthrough for Indian manufacturing, IIT Indore has developed a low-cost metal 3D printing technology called MP-MAM, now in the process of being patented. For decades, the idea of metal 3D printing remained out of reach for most Indian MSMEs because of the prohibitive cost of imported machines and the niche industries that dominated its use. High investment, long turnaround times, and heavy wastage from traditional machining processes kept small enterprises away from this global trend.

Now, with an indigenous and cost-effective alternative, the entire scenario may change. The technology has the potential to democratize additive manufacturing by making it affordable and accessible to MSMEs engaged in toolmaking, spare parts, auto ancillaries, medical implants, and customized fabrication. For many small manufacturers, this could mean faster prototyping, reduced costs, and the ability to take on complex or small-batch jobs that were previously unviable.

The ripple effects are wide. Manufacturers can deliver more competitive products, healthcare startups could develop affordable implants and prosthetics, service providers can add 3D printing to their offerings, and customers can enjoy customized, quicker, and cheaper solutions. This could reduce India’s reliance on imported machinery and parts while also boosting exports of precision-engineered components.

For Indian MSMEs, the opportunity lies in reimagining their processes. 3D printing can make rapid prototyping faster and cheaper, enable on-demand spare parts manufacturing, and open up avenues for niche and customized products, even in global markets. If scaled well, this shift aligns perfectly with the vision of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Such breakthroughs must not remain confined to research labs. To ensure diffusion, we suggest regional additive manufacturing hubs where MSMEs can access shared infrastructure, skill development programs to train the workforce, and supportive financing models such as soft loans and subsidies to enable adoption.

For entrepreneurs ready to act, the steps are clear. Begin by exploring how 3D printing can fit into your operations platforms like T-Works Hyderabad and CMTI Bengaluru, which already offer prototyping access. Upskill your teams in CAD design and additive manufacturing through courses on NPTEL or Skill India. Seek collaboration opportunities with institutes such as IIT Indore or industry incubation centres. Finally, keep track of MSME technology support schemes and upcoming  initiatives.

The arrival of low-cost metal 3D printing could be the turning point where India’s MSMEs move from being technology followers to early adopters. Those who embrace it now stand to gain a decisive edge in both domestic and international markets.