India must remain Pharmacy of the World: Mandaviya

The pharmaceutical and medical device is progressing at a rapid rate, Chemicals & Fertilizers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in Delhi today. Mandaviya, who also hold the Health & Family Welfare portfolio, added that “to maintain our stature as the Pharmacy of the World, we need to focus on quality and affordable manufacturing with an increased focus on research and innovation.”

He was speaking at a roundtable meeting, which he chaired, with the leading CEOs of pharmaceutical industry in the country on the second day of 8th International Conference on Pharma and Medical Device Sector, according to an official press release.

Mandaviya urged the stakeholders to capitalize on the current opportunities, stating that substantial investment in terms of production linked incentive or PLI schemes and upcoming drug parks are bearing fruit. “To catalyze growth, we must maintain a degree of competitiveness to consolidate our presence in the world.”

He said, “The government is industry-friendly and welcomes opportunities for collaboration. The government and industry, both integral to the nation’s progress, must work cohesively to achieve holistic growth.”

Affirming government support, Mandaviya invited the stakeholders to put forth their suggestions addressing the aspects of pricing, regulatory, policy and strategy, with the respective action points in a detailed presentation. Due consideration will be given to facilitate further policy support and growth, he added.

Pharmaceuticals Secretary S. Aparna urged the attending representatives to collate and collectively represent their perspectives adhering to the aforementioned four categories to facilitate policy makers foster a stronger ecosystem for all.

The roundtable brought together participants from over 60 companies represented by senior executives.