Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Saturday (27 May) asked the pharma industry to focus on quality and affordable manufacturing "with an increased focus on research and innovation" to maintain India's stature as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’.

Mandaviya on Saturday chaired a roundtable meeting with the leading CEOs of pharmaceutical industry in the country on the second day of 8th International Conference on Pharma and Medical Device Sector.

Lauding the growth momentum of the industry, the minister said, “The industry is progressing at a rapid rate, and 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".

Adding further, Mandaviya urged the stakeholders to capitalise on the current opportunities, stating “substantial investment in terms of Production Linked Incentive schemes as well as upcoming drug parks are bearing fruitful results. To catalyze growth, we must maintain a degree of competitiveness to consolidate our presence in the world".

Reiterating the government’s commitment and resolve, the Union Health minister 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".

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 and due consideration will be given to facilitate further policy support and growth.