The low translational efficiency of animal models to humans, and the development of new-age methodologiesthat are human-cell based, is fuelling a paradigm change across the globe. In this perspectives paper, wediscuss the current state of research, funding, and regulation in these 21st century technologies, includingorganoids and organ-on-chip in India. Recently, a road-map was drawn by Indian Council for MedicalResearch (ICMR) regarding alternatives to animals in research in India and it also held a special session inJanuary 2018 to discuss latest developments in new human-relevant model systems. We document the regulatoryand research landscape in this field in India. We also discuss the challenges present in this field whichinclude lack of training and skills to handle embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines, fundinglimitations, lack of domestic production of reagents leading to elevated costs, and lack of infrastructure, such asmicrofabrication facilities. In the end, we provide recommendations to enable innovation and application ofhuman-relevant methodologies to develop India as a key player in this arena globally.