The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved a proposed transaction involving the merger of Quality Care India Limited (QCIL) into Aster DM Healthcare Limited, marking a significant consolidation in India’s healthcare sector. Under the scheme, Aster will first acquire a five per cent stake in QCIL from BCP Asia and Centella in exchange for a primary share issuance. Following the merger, Aster will be renamed Aster DM Quality Care Limited. QCIL’s shareholders — Centella, BCP, and certain minority investors — will retain stakes in the merged entity. However, Centella's stake will remain below ten per cent, and it will not hold any control rights.

About the Entities: – Aster: Operates 19 hospitals, 13 clinics, 215 pharmacies, and 232 labs across six Indian states. – QCIL: Operates 26 multi-specialty hospitals under brands like CARE, KIMS, and Evercare, with over 5,150 beds and a team of 2,500 doctors. – BCP: Linked to funds managed by Blackstone Inc. – Centella: Associated with TPG Group, a global investment firm.

CCI stated that the detailed order will be issued in due course.

Source: PIB Delhi

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