Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s progress towards becoming a strong pharmaceutical economy during a ‘Healthcare Summit’. He emphasized the country’s growth in pharmaceuticals, medtech, and manufacturing, positioning India as a significant contributor to the GDP. The focus was on themes like “Made in India” and “Quality,” showcasing a shift towards global quality standards and indigenous innovation.
India has witnessed a significant transformation in its healthcare sector over the past decade, moving from reliance on imports to fostering indigenous capabilities. The country is now developing its own antibiotics, vaccines, and advanced therapies, promoting self-reliance and affordability in healthcare. Singh also praised India’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, where it not only developed indigenous vaccines but also supplied them globally, reinforcing its position as a reliable healthcare partner.
Singh emphasized the improvement in quality standards, noting that Indian medical devices like stents, ventilators, and diagnostic equipment now meet global benchmarks. He highlighted policy initiatives such as the Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech (PRIP) scheme, aimed at transitioning India from low-cost manufacturing to high-value innovation. The minister mentioned India’s current share in the global medical devices market, around 1.5%, and the government’s efforts to increase this through the National Medical Device Policy 2023.
