By: Y.V. Phani Raj
Hyderabad began its contribution to the world through quality medicines from Indian Drugs & Pharmaceuticals (IDPL), established way back in 1961. Since then, the city has seen many Pharmaceutical companies making it their base and exporting their drugs globally, besides meeting domestic needs. Realising the future growth requirement, Telangana government recently proposed a Pharma City to be developed in 11,000 acres of land at Mucherla in the adjoining Ranga Reddy District, attracting `30,000 crore of investment.
Guidelines for companies interested to set up units being finalised
Sharing the current status of the Pharma City, Jupally Krishna Rao, Industries minister, Telangana, told Metro India, “The infrastructure works will begin soon for the Pharma City. Land is available for the project. The Telangana State Industrial policy will come into force soon and the guidelines are being finalised shortly for companies to establish units.” Rao added, “Companies that are interested to set up pharmaceutical plants can initiate talks with the State government. Many enquires have come from small, medium and large pharmaceutical companies already.
There would be no phase-wise development of the project which means units can come up across the designated areas simultaneously.” Jayesh Ranjan, CMD, Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC), said, “There is also some land available near IDPL where a Pharmaceuticals Park could be developed. Companies interested in establishing units can explore this location as well. The State government has submitted a proposal to the Union government which is currently being reviewed.” Hyderabad has been the hub for pharmaceuticals production, accounting for one-third of the nation’s bulk drugs (active pharmaceutical ingredients), besides housing several leading formulations manufacturers.
The city also has a significant presence of contract research organisations, contract manufacturers and clinical research companies. Telangana government has identified Pharmaceuticals as one of the thrust areas in its recently announced industrial policy and had planned to develop an exclusive world-class pharma city. Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on December 3, unveiled the development of an eco-friendly Pharma City.
Following an aerial survey along with a team comprising Pharmaceutical industry leaders and officials, the Chief Minister said the ambitious project will be named as ‘Hyderabad Pharma City’ wherein many local Pharmaceutical companies are evincing keen interest to invest. He assured that the Pharma City will implement “Zero Liquid Discharge” system that will desist from adding to environmental problems.
A Pharma University, Research Centre and a new township for the workforce to be employed in the proposed Pharma City will also be built, as per the government’s plan. The Pharma City which will be established through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is expected to provide about 70,000 direct and indirect jobs. The government is keen to develop the Pharma City on par with the international standards.
Source: Metro India