Crafted from high-strength carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer, ADIDOC is engineered to withstand loads up to 125 kg, making it suitable for K3-level active users — those who engage in moderate to high levels of mobility, including dynamic walking and occasional sports.
In a major milestone under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, India has unveiled its first cost-effective, high-performance carbon fibre foot prosthesis — a game-changing innovation that promises to transform mobility access for amputees across the country. The advanced prosthetic foot, called ADIDOC (AIIMS Bibinagar – DRDL, DRDO Indigenously Developed Optimised Carbon Foot Prosthesis), is a result of a collaborative effort between the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) of DRDO and AIIMS Bibinagar.
The ADIDOC foot was officially launched on July 14, 2025, at AIIMS Bibinagar, Telangana, by Dr. GA Srinivasa Murthy, Distinguished Scientist and Director of DRDL, and Dr. Ahanthem Santa Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bibinagar. The unveiling marked a significant advancement in indigenous prosthetics technology aimed at enhancing mobility, affordability, and dignity for persons with limb loss.
A New Standard for Performance and Affordability
Crafted from high-strength carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer, ADIDOC is engineered to withstand loads up to 125 kg, making it suitable for K3-level active users — those who engage in moderate to high levels of mobility, including dynamic walking and occasional sports. With three weight-specific variants, the prosthesis is adaptable to a broad range of users.
Most notably, the ADIDOC foot is expected to cost less than ₹20,000 per unit — a fraction of the price of comparable imported models, which are priced around ₹2 lakh. This dramatic cost reduction is set to improve access to advanced prosthetic care for thousands of low-income amputees across India, reducing the country’s dependence on imported technologies.
“The development of ADIDOC is a true testament to Indian innovation. It bridges a critical gap between performance and affordability, enabling greater mobility and economic participation for people with disabilities,” said Dr. Murthy during the launch.
Biomechanical Breakthrough, Social Impact
Developed through rigorous research, testing, and collaboration between medical professionals and defence scientists, ADIDOC delivers international-grade performance while maintaining cost efficiency. It has been biomechanically tested with a high factor of safety to ensure durability and comfort even under rigorous use.
The joint development between DRDL and AIIMS Bibinagar reflects a model of successful cross-sector collaboration between defence science and public health. The prosthesis is not only a technological breakthrough but also a symbol of India’s commitment to inclusive innovation.
“Through ADIDOC, we aim to restore functional independence and improve the quality of life for amputees, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds,” said Dr. Singh. “This innovation will have a lasting socio-economic impact.”
Global Context and Future Outlook
The unveiling of ADIDOC places India alongside countries pioneering advanced prosthetic technologies. The use of carbon fibre — also found in elite sports prostheses like the Flex-Foot Cheetah, famously used by Paralympians — marks a shift toward energy-efficient, spring-like designs that mimic natural foot mechanics.
Globally, high-performance carbon fibre foot prostheses can cost between $15,000 and $18,000 (₹12–15 lakh), putting them far out of reach for most individuals in developing countries. ADIDOC is designed to meet global benchmarks while being manufactured domestically at an accessible price point, using indigenous expertise and materials.
As the ADIDOC foot begins deployment, India sets a precedent for self-reliance in assistive technologies. Beyond improving individual mobility, the prosthesis opens doors to education, employment, and community participation for people with disabilities — aligning with the broader goals of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and social equity.
With future plans to scale production and explore export possibilities, ADIDOC stands as a beacon of India’s ability to lead in affordable medical innovation — both at home and abroad, an AIIMS scientist associated with the project said.
