March 2025

The National Biopharma Mission (NBM)-Innovate in India (i3), is a government-approved initiative led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and implemented by BIRAC. It aims to boost India’s capabilities in biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, biosimilars, medical devices, and diagnostics by fostering collaboration between industry and academia. With a budget of $250 million, co-funded 50% by the World Bank, the mission supports 101 projects, involving over 150 organisations and 30 MSMEs. It has helped set up 11 shared facilities for testing, validation, and manufacturing—benefiting start-ups and MSMEs. These include GCLP labs for vaccine testing, GLP labs for biosimilar analysis, and cGMP facilities for manufacturing. The mission has also generated over 1,000 jobs, including 304 scientists and researchers. Additionally, the Genome India Programme, which involves sequencing 10,000 genomes, is expected to shape future global healthcare strategies, both in treatment and prevention.

Key Achievements in India's Pharma Sector:

 •  India has emerged as a global hub for affordable, high-quality medicines, ranking 3rd in pharmaceutical production by volume and 14th by value.  •  Developed the world’s first DNA vaccine for COVID-19, showcasing innovation in global health.  •  Produces 65% of the world’s vaccines, significantly benefiting low- and middle-income countries.  •  The "Make in India" initiative is reducing dependency on imported Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) through strengthened domestic manufacturing.  •  Pharma industry has transitioned from a generic-focused model to developing biopharmaceuticals and biosimilars.  •  India is working on the first indigenous HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer in adolescent girls.  •  Every third tablet consumed globally is manufactured in India, demonstrating global trust in Indian pharma.

PIB