Biopharma at the Heart of India’s Healthcare Strategy
Biopharmaceuticals, or biopharma, are medicines developed using living organisms such as human cells, bacteria, or fungi. These include vaccines, therapeutic proteins, biosimilars, and advanced biologic therapies, often targeting diseases where conventional drugs may be less effective. The government’s focus on biopharma recognizes its critical role in modern healthcare and economic growth.
Key Features of Biopharma SHAKTI
- Creation of a robust ecosystem for domestic development and manufacturing of biologics and biosimilars.
- Expansion of research capacity through three new NIPERs and upgradation of seven existing NIPERs.
- Development of 1,000+ accredited clinical trial sites nationwide to enhance innovation and ethical trials.
- Strengthening the regulatory framework via the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) with specialized scientific personnel.
Government Support and Mission Initiatives
India has already made significant strides through the National Biopharma Mission (NBM), launched in 2017 with World Bank co-funding. The mission has supported over 100 projects, generated 1,000+ jobs, and fostered biotech entrepreneurship, including innovations like low-cost MRI scanners and biosimilars for diabetes.
The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) further strengthens India’s innovation ecosystem through schemes like the Biotechnology Ignition Grant (BIG), SEED Fund, and LEAP Fund, supporting startups and research across biotechnology sectors.
Manufacturing and Industrial Strengthening
Government measures such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for pharmaceuticals, Strengthening of Pharmaceutical Industry (SPI), and Bulk Drug Parks aim to enhance domestic manufacturing, upgrade MSME capabilities, and ensure global-quality production standards.
The Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech (PRIP) and the BioE3 Policy support research, biomanufacturing, Bio-AI hubs, and sustainable biotechnology innovations addressing healthcare, agriculture, and climate change challenges.
Looking Ahead
With coordinated policies spanning research, clinical trials, regulatory support, and entrepreneurship, India is poised to move up the pharmaceutical value chain. Biopharma SHAKTI, with its ₹10,000 crore investment, underscores the government’s vision of making India a global biopharmaceutical leader, offering advanced therapies domestically while strengthening its global competitiveness.
