SS Innovations International Inc. (SSII), a global developer of surgical robotic technologies, has advanced its vision of making robotic surgery affordable and accessible with the MantraM “Made in India” Surgical Robot Yatra entering Madhya Pradesh. After its successful run across Rajasthan, India’s first Mobile Tele-Robotic Surgery Unit began the third leg of its national journey with a showcase at HER Health Hospital, Bhopal.
India’s First Robotic Telesurgery in Bhopal
As per the press release, the opening day witnessed a historic milestone with Bhopal’s first telesurgery performed from within MantraM. The procedure was conducted by Dr. Priya Bhave Chittawar, Founder and Managing Director of HER Health Hospital, Bhopal. This landmark surgery demonstrated the growing feasibility of real-time surgical collaboration. It eliminated geographical barriers and proved how remote expertise can be applied instantly to improve patient outcomes.
By removing the need for travel, robotic telesurgery is redefining healthcare delivery, especially for patients in underserved or remote regions.
Leaders Speak on Democratizing Healthcare
Dr. Vishwa Pascual Srivastava, MD and Chief Executive Officer – APAC, SS Innovations International, highlighted the mission:
“This historic moment showcases what’s possible when innovation meets purpose. The MantraM Yatra is not just about technology; it is a mission to democratize access to world-class surgical care by bringing robotic surgery directly to the grassroots of India.”
Dr. Priya Bhave Chittawar emphasized the transformative potential:
“Performing a complex telesurgery remotely, and for the first time from within a bus, is a breakthrough in surgical science. This is about bridging gaps in healthcare access, and the SSI Mantra system proves that the future of safe, precise, and inclusive surgery is being shaped in India.”
Hands-On Training and Public Engagement
The event attracted enthusiastic participation from doctors, medical faculty, students, and the local community. Attendees experienced live demos inside the MantraM mobile unit, exploring the advanced capabilities of the SSI Mantra surgical robot. The bus also served as an immersive training platform, helping practitioners understand the transformative potential of robotic surgery.
Roadmap in Madhya Pradesh
Following its impactful debut in Bhopal, the MantraM Yatra will continue across Madhya Pradesh with a packed itinerary:
- August 23 – IAGE Conference, Hotel Effotel by Sayaji, Bhopal
- August 25–26 – Sri Aurobindo Institute of Medical Sciences (SAIMS) University, Indore
- August 29–30 – Apollo Hospital, Jabalpur
- September 1 – Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose (NSCB) Medical College, Jabalpur
The journey will cover over 700 km, engage more than 500 healthcare professionals, and provide immersive robotic surgery training.
Engineering Excellence on Wheels
MantraM is built on a BharatBenz 1824 chassis with an 18,500 kg gross vehicle weight for stability and durability during transport. Measuring 11.9m (L) x 2.59m (W) x 3.49m (H), the fully modified unit costs approximately INR 1.3 Crores (excluding the robotic system).
The bus includes:
- Reinforced base, actuator-based patient-side carts, and secure locking for robotic arms
- Expandable cabin for surgical teams
- Air suspension and climate-controlled interiors (21°C ± 3°C, 55% RH)
- EMI/EMC compliance for sensitive electronics
- Backup power (5 kVA generators, external compatibility)
- High-speed telecom and satellite connectivity for telesurgery
- 380-litre fuel tank for long-distance travel
- Dedicated driver’s cabin, multiple access points, and a special ramp for equipment handling
Redefining the Future of Indian Healthcare
The MantraM Surgical Robot Yatra is more than a roadshow — it is a movement to break barriers in access to healthcare. By bringing advanced robotic surgery to doctors and patients in remote communities, SSII is reaffirming its mission to revolutionize global healthcare through innovation, affordability, and accessibility.