New Delhi, Dec. 4 -- India is planning to tighten the regulatory framework for assisted reproductive technology (ART) and surrogacy clinics through rigorous inspections and licence renewal protocols, according to two government officials and a document reviewed by Mint.

The plan in the works at the ministry of health and family welfare will make it mandatory for private clinics to pay a non-refundable renewal fee of Rs.100,000 every three years. The funds collected will be utilized by the state governments to enforce the regulatory provisions, conduct inspections, and monitor compliance.

Also, these clinics must apply for renewal 60 days before their license expires. Failure to do so will attract a penalty of Rs.200,000. However, govern...