Keltron's Moodadi unit in Kozhikode is transforming lives with its affordable 'Shravan' digital hearing aid. Supported by a ₹1 crore budget injection, the facility is set to evolve into a massive high-tech electronics village.

Key Takeaways

  • Keltron's 'Shravan' digital hearing aid is priced at just ₹8,000.
  • The state budget has allocated ₹1 crore for a high-tech makeover.
  • The workforce is expected to triple from 50 to 150 employees.
  • The expansion includes an upcoming 13-acre 'Electronics Village'.

The Kerala State Electronics Development Corporation (Keltron) unit at Moodadi in Kozhikode is undergoing a massive technological metamorphosis. Once a modest assembly line for cathode-ray televisions, the facility is now at the forefront of affordable medical technology manufacturing.

The flagship product, Shravan, is a fully digital, programmable hearing aid that is disrupting the market. While private competitors often price similar digital devices above ₹25,000, Keltron offers Shravan for a mere ₹8,000. This massive price gap ensures that life-changing technology reaches the most economically vulnerable sections of society.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Keltron's strategic shift from consumer electronics to specialized medical devices represents a significant move toward self-reliance in healthcare manufacturing. By bridging the gap between high-cost private brands and accessibility, Keltron is setting a benchmark for Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) globally.

"Our aim is to make this technology accessible to ordinary people while delivering the exact same quality offered by private brands." - Sreejith Sasidhara Kurup, Unit Head.

The expansion is not limited to hearing aids. The unit has already developed prototypes for oxygen concentrators, nebulisers, and pH meters. The upcoming 13-acre 'Electronics Village' project will provide the necessary space for mass production, potentially turning Kozhikode into a regional hub for medical electronics.

Historical Background

Keltron has long been a cornerstone of Kerala's industrial landscape. As the state moves toward a knowledge-based economy, the transition of units like the Moodadi facility from traditional electronics to advanced biomedical engineering marks a crucial evolutionary step in India's technological journey.

Did You Know?: The Shravan hearing aid currently contributes nearly 2% to Keltron's total annual profit despite its low price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does the Shravan hearing aid cost?
It is priced at an affordable ₹8,000, significantly lower than the market average of ₹25,000+.

2. What other medical devices is Keltron developing?
Keltron is working on oxygen concentrators, nebulisers, clinical thermometers, and motorised wheelchairs.