India is set to take the lead in the global pharmaceutical arena, according to Health Minister JP Nadda. The country’s focus on biologics, biosimilars, and specialty medicines is key to this development. Nadda highlighted the launch of the Biopharma Shakti Initiative with a budget of Rs 10,000 crore to boost biopharmaceutical innovation and research capabilities.
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, emphasized the importance of the industry’s focus on innovation-driven segments. She noted that innovative drugs make up a significant portion of the global pharmaceutical market value. Patel also mentioned initiatives like the PRIP scheme, Production-Linked Incentive programs, and the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana that support domestic manufacturing and affordable access to medicines.
India Pharma 2026, an event highlighted by Nadda, serves as a crucial platform for discussions, partnerships, and planning the future of the pharmaceutical sector. Patel pointed out that India is transitioning from a global generics leader to a burgeoning biopharma innovation hub. The country currently supplies about 20% of global generic medicines and fulfills approximately 70% of the global vaccine demand, showcasing its strong manufacturing capabilities.
Patel stressed the importance of focusing on human capital through institutions like NIPERs and IITs to drive advanced research and innovation. She also highlighted the rapid expansion of the global demand for biologics and biosimilars, with the biosimilars market expected to reach $75 billion by 2030. The ministers participated in the 9th edition of ‘India Pharma 2026’, a conference organized by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), FICCI, and the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) to promote innovation, self-reliance, and global leadership in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
