India is rapidly emerging as a global pharmaceutical powerhouse and is well-positioned to lead the next wave of biopharmaceutical innovation, Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilisers Anupriya Patel said on Thursday.
While addressing ASSOCHAM's Pharma Summit & Awards 2026, she highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing, promote innovation, and build a resilient healthcare ecosystem capable of driving the country's long-term growth in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
“India is rapidly strengthening its position as a global pharmaceutical powerhouse while preparing to lead the next wave of biopharmaceutical innovation,” she stated. “India's journey towards becoming Atmanirbhar in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology is not only an economic objective but also a strategic necessity,” the minister mentioned.
Highlighting the impact of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, she noted that India has significantly enhanced domestic manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and critical drugs, reducing dependence on imports across key pharmaceutical inputs.
The minister described biopharmaceuticals as India's next strategic frontier and said the recently announced Rs 10,000 crore Biopharma Shakti Mission reflects the government's strong commitment to innovation-led healthcare. “The mission aims to facilitate the development of at least 100 biologics by 2047 and position India as a global hub for advanced therapies, novel biologics and next-generation healthcare solutions while strengthening its leadership in affordable generic medicines,” Patel stated.
"The future of pharma will belong to those who innovate, collaborate and build for the world, and India is ready to lead," she added. She called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, industry, academia, startups, investors, regulators and healthcare institutions to enhance research capabilities, manufacturing strength, supply chain resilience and global quality standards.
Addressing the gathering, Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, said the Indian pharmaceutical industry is entering a new phase of growth driven by innovation, quality, regulatory excellence and global competitiveness.
ASSOCHAM Past President Anil K. Agarwal said the pharmaceutical sector is at a defining moment where innovation, regulatory excellence and collaborative partnerships can help establish India as a global leader in advanced healthcare solutions.