Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for a major pharmaceutical training center in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. The event marked the official launch of the Pharmaceutical Academy for Global Excellence, known as PAGE.
Industry Leaders Commit $50 Million
The academy represents a significant national skilling initiative driven by the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance. Member companies of this alliance have collectively pledged $50 million to fund the program. Their goal is straightforward: enhance pharmaceutical manufacturing standards and achieve quality excellence across the industry.
A Strategic Asset for the Nation
During his address, Amit Shah emphasized the critical role of the pharmaceutical sector. He described it as a strategic national asset that directly influences public health, economic strength, and India's global reputation.
"PAGE is a significant step towards 'Atmanirbhar Bharat'," Shah stated. He explained the initiative aims to strengthen domestic capabilities through advanced skills, quality excellence, and collaboration between industry and academia.
Looking ahead, Shah connected the academy to the broader 'Viksit Bharat 2047' vision. He said India must move decisively from 'Make in India' to 'Discover and Make in India'. Quality and innovation will serve as the fundamental pillars of this growth.
Gujarat Strengthens Its Pharma Hub Status
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel also spoke at the ceremony. He highlighted the state's long-standing leadership in India's pharmaceutical industry. Patel expressed confidence that the PAGE academy would further solidify Gujarat's position as the nation's primary pharmaceutical hub.
Industry Growth and Collective Commitment
Sharvil Patel, President of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance and Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, outlined the industry's ambitions. "PAGE represents our collective commitment to building world-class manufacturing," he said.
The program will focus on developing skilled talent, providing practical training, and establishing strong quality systems. Patel provided context on the sector's remarkable growth. In 1999, the Indian pharmaceutical industry was valued at just $3 billion. Today, it has reached $60 billion. Industry projections suggest it could touch $125 billion by the year 2030.
Unveiling the India Pharma Archives
The foundation stone ceremony included another important milestone. Officials unveiled the India Pharma Archives. This archive commemorates twenty-five years of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance's work and contributions to the sector.
Prominent Leaders Attend the Event
The launch event in Sanathal, Ahmedabad, saw attendance from several top pharmaceutical executives. Notable figures present included:
- Pankaj Patel, Chairman of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd.
- Sudhir Mehta, Chairman Emeritus of Torrent Pharma Ltd.
- Dilip Sanghvi, Executive Chairman of Sun Pharma Ltd.
Their presence underscored the industry-wide support for this new skilling academy and its mission to elevate pharmaceutical standards in India.
