India’s Pharma & MedTech Ecosystem Strengthened Through Infrastructure, Innovation, and Access Schemes

India’s pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors are undergoing a transformative phase, driven by a series of government-backed schemes that combine infrastructure development, innovation support, affordability initiatives, and regulatory strengthening. Together, these measures are positioning India as a global hub for pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biopharmaceuticals.

Bulk Drug and Medical Device Parks

The Scheme for Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks is enabling the creation of common infrastructure for bulk drug manufacturing. Three parks have been approved in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Himachal Pradesh, with a combined project cost exceeding ₹6,306 crore. Each park is receiving ₹1,000 crore in central assistance.

The Scheme for Promotion of Medical Devices Parks supports advanced testing and laboratory facilities. Parks in Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh), Ujjain (Madhya Pradesh), and Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu) are at advanced stages of development, with a total project cost of ₹871 crore.

• 199 medical device manufacturers allotted land
• 306.64 acres distributed across three parks
• 34 units have commenced construction

Research, Innovation, and Affordable Access

The Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech (PRIP) scheme is fostering innovation-driven growth.

• 7 Centres of Excellence established at NIPERs
• 111 research projects approved
• 46 papers published
• 6 patents filed

The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has expanded access to low-cost medicines.

• 18,646 Jan Aushadhi Kendras operational
• 2,110 medicines and 315 medical devices available
• Over 100 crore sanitary pads sold at ₹1 each
• ₹8,000 crore savings for citizens in FY 2024-25
• ₹5,637 crore savings up to November 2025

Biopharma SHAKTI Initiative

Announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, Biopharma SHAKTI will invest ₹10,000 crore over five years to establish India as a global biopharmaceutical hub.

• Creation of biopharma-focused institutional network
• 3 new and 7 upgraded NIPERs
• 1,000 accredited clinical trial sites planned

Regulatory and Pricing Framework

India’s pharmaceutical governance is anchored by a strong regulatory ecosystem:

• CDSCO oversees drug approvals, clinical trials, and pharmacovigilance
• NPPA regulates drug prices under DPCO 2013
• IPC publishes the Indian Pharmacopoeia, recognized in 19 countries

Conclusion

India’s pharmaceutical ecosystem is evolving into a globally integrated, policy-supported system that balances scale, affordability, and regulatory credibility. Upcoming trade agreements with the European Union, United Kingdom, and New Zealand are expected to further enhance India’s pharmaceutical and medical devices sector.

MAHE Launches MAGIC Platform to Integrate AI Agents in Higher Education

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, today announced the launch of MAGIC (MAHE Agentic Intelligent Console), a major step in its digital transformation journey designed to introduce AI-powered agentic systems across both academic and administrative ecosystems of the university. The launch of MAHE MAGIC marks a significant milestone in MAHE’s technology-driven evolution. The MAGIC platform represents the university’s transition from traditional reactive digital systems to proactive AI-enabled systems, enabling automation, intelligent insights, and improved decision-making for faculty, students, and administrators. The initiative builds on MAHE’s digital transformation program initiated in 2023 to modernise institutional processes and services.

The initiative is being implemented by Manipal Academy of Higher Education in collaboration with leading global technology partners, including Microsoft, Salesforce, Deloitte, PwC, and Hitachi.

MAHE Introduces ‘MAGIC’ to Power AI-Driven Academic and Administrative Transformation

Senior leadership from MAHE, technology partners, faculty representatives, and administrative teams participated in the initiative rollout and strategic discussions around the adoption of AI-driven platforms in higher education.

MAGIC is designed to introduce intelligent AI agents across critical university functions. The system will initially deploy five AI agents within the Student Life Cycle Management (SLCM) platform, enabling automated support for routine academic processes such as timetable creation, attendance management, exam planning, and performance insights. Beyond academics, AI agents will also transform operational workflows across admissions, procurement, finance, HR, and support services, helping reduce processing time, improve efficiency, and enhance user experience.

The platform will also introduce research-support agents capable of scanning academic databases, summarising literature, and suggesting citations, enabling researchers to focus on innovation rather than administrative tasks.

"In addition, AI-driven systems will support prospective students by streamlining admissions and application processing, and offering selective candidate issuance within minutes." AI-powered support agents will also provide 24/7 assistance, reducing wait times and improving response efficiency.

MAHE plans to deploy more than 50 AI agents across academic and administrative functions over the next two years, creating an integrated AI ecosystem within the university.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, said, “MAGIC represents a transformative step in our digital evolution. By integrating agentic AI across our academic and administrative ecosystems, we aim to create a proactive and intelligent university environment where technology supports both educators and learners in achieving excellence.”

Arundhati Bhattacharya, President & CEO, South Asia at Salesforce, said, “The integration of AI agents within higher education institutions like MAHE showcases the potential of intelligent digital platforms to transform learning, research, and institutional operations. We are proud to support MAHE in building an AI-driven ecosystem that empowers students, faculty, and administrators.”

Ashwin Ballal, Leader, Deloitte India, said, “MAHE’s MAGIC initiative represents a forward-looking step in the digital evolution of higher education institutions. By integrating agentic AI into core academic and administrative systems, MAHE is building a scalable, intelligent ecosystem that enhances efficiency, decision-making, and the user experience for students, faculty, and administrators. We are proud to support MAHE in this transformative journey.”

With the launch of MAGIC, MAHE is strengthening its position as a technology-driven global university, advancing towards a future where AI, automation, and emerging technologies such as quantum computing will play a central role in higher education.

The initiative reinforces MAHE’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and enhanced academic experiences, enabling students and faculty to collaborate with intelligent systems and shaping a new model for digitally empowered universities.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, offering over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences, Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Technology & Science. MAHE operates through its constituent institutions across campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai.

Renowned for its academic excellence, world-class infrastructure, and impactful research contributions, MAHE has earned strong national and international recognition. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, conferred MAHE with the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE continues to be a preferred destination for students seeking a transformative learning experience and vibrant campus life, as well as for national and multinational organisations seeking top talent.

India’s CSIR-NAL Unveils NJ100: Backpack-Sized Turbojet for UAVs & Missiles

India’s CSIR-NAL has unveiled the NJ100, a backpack-sized indigenous turbojet engine delivering 100 kgf (≈1 kN) thrust, designed for UAVs, loitering munitions, drone interceptors, and compact cruise-missile platforms — a major leap in self-reliance for aerospace propulsion.

What makes this especially notable is the indigenous development: India has historically relied on foreign suppliers for small turbojet engines, so this represents a leap in self-reliance for defense and aerospace applications. It also opens doors for dual-use technologies — think high-speed drones for civilian surveillance, disaster response, or even experimental aviation projects.

Key Highlights of NJ100

NJ100 Turbo Jet 

• Developer:CSIR–National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL)
• Thrust Rating:100 kgf (~1 kN)
• Size:Backpack-sized, highly portable
• Applications:UAVs, loitering munitions, drone interceptors, compact cruise missiles
• Unveiled By:Dr. R. Prathapanayaka, Chief Scientist at CSIR-NAL
• Date of Launch:March 2026
• Strategic Importance:Reduces reliance on imported propulsion systems

Why NJ100 Matters

• Indigenous Breakthrough:First-of-its-kind domestic solution
• Defense Readiness:Enables faster deployment of UAV fleets and missile systems
• Cost Efficiency:Local production lowers procurement costs
• Dual-Use Potential:Civilian drones, disaster-response UAVs

Technical & Strategic Context

Feature	NJ100	Typical Imported Small Turbojets
Thrust	100 kgf (~1 kN)	80–120 kgf range
Origin	Indigenous (CSIR-NAL)	European/US suppliers
Size	Backpack-sized	Similar, but heavier
Applications	UAVs, loitering munitions, compact missiles	UAVs, cruise missiles
Strategic Value	Self-reliance, cost savings, rapid deployment	Import dependency, higher costs

Risks & Challenges

• Scaling Production:Requires industrial partnerships
• Integration Testing:UAVs and missile systems must validate reliability
• Export Controls:Restrictions may apply for exports
• Competition:Global players dominate small turbojet markets

A jet engine the size of a backpack — engineered in India.

Dr R Prathapanayaka, Chief Scientist,@CSIRNALOFFICIAL, introduces the NJ100, an indigenous small turbojet engine delivering 100 kgf thrust for#UAVs, drone interceptors and compact cruise-missile class platforms.

A…pic.twitter.com/dBTn2XxNoO

— CSIR, India (@CSIR_IND)March 16, 2026

India Enters Global Rare Earth Value Chain with ARCI’s Nd-Fe-B Magnet Pilot Plant

India has taken a decisive step toward self-reliance in critical materials with the inauguration of a pilot plant for Nd-Fe-B (Neodymium-Iron-Boron) rare earth permanent magnets at the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad. The facility, established under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), marks India’s formal entry into the global rare earth value chain.

A Strategic Milestone

The pilot plant was inaugurated by Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, DST, alongside Dr. R. Vijay, Director, ARCI, in the presence of eminent leaders including Prof. Ashutosh Sharma, Former DST Secretary and Chairman of ARCI’s Governing Council, Dr. S. K. Jha, Former CMD, MIDHANI, and Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). The event drew participation from industry leaders, national institutes, and stakeholders across the innovation ecosystem.

Pilot Plant for the manufacture of Nd-Fe-B (Neodymium-Iron-Boron) rare earth permanent magnets at the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad

End-to-End Manufacturing Capability

The facility adopts a complete “strip-cast alloy to finished sintered magnet” approach, enabling India to develop a robust and indigenous manufacturing ecosystem. Nd-Fe-B magnets are indispensable in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, consumer electronics, and advanced manufacturing technologies. By establishing this capability, India reduces dependence on highly concentrated global supply chains, which have long posed vulnerabilities for emerging economies.

Building Strategic Autonomy

Prof. Karandikar emphasized that the pilot plant is a critical step toward strategic autonomy in critical materials, particularly in the context of global supply chain disruptions and India’s growing demand for clean energy and advanced manufacturing. He noted, “As we work towards Viksit Bharat 2047, strengthening indigenous capabilities in critical technologies will be central to our development strategy. Initiatives like this help reduce dependence while enhancing resilience and competitiveness.”

Industry Collaboration & Innovation

The pilot plant is designed as a platform for technology validation, process optimization, and industry collaboration. It will support deep-tech startups, private sector participation, and translational research, accelerating commercialization of indigenous rare earth magnet technologies. Prof. Sharma highlighted its flexibility, noting that the facility will enable continuous innovation and product development.

Dr. Kalyanaraman outlined the Mission for Advancement in High-impact Areas (MAHA), which aims to accelerate critical technologies including India’s EV ecosystem, and invited private sector participation. Meanwhile, Dr. Vijay underscored ARCI’s vision of building a “mineral-to-market” ecosystem, spanning rare earth extraction to magnet manufacturing.

Towards Atmanirbhar Bharat

The establishment of this pilot plant is more than a technological milestone—it is a strategic enabler for India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. By catalyzing industry participation, fostering innovation, and strengthening supply security, the facility positions India as a credible player in the global rare earth value chain. It will directly contribute to the growth of the electric mobility ecosystem, renewable energy adoption, and advanced materials manufacturing.

Indian Railways Launch Tech-Driven Overhaul: AI Surveillance, QR Codes, and Cooperative Ride-Hailing

Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, chaired a high-level review meeting at Rail Bhawan to accelerate reforms aimed at transforming India’s busiest railway stations into safer, smarter, and more passenger-friendly spaces. The meeting focused on station access, passenger amenities, security reinforcements, and crowd management, with New Delhi Railway Station chosen as the pilot site for these innovations.

These reforms will first be implemented at New Delhi Railway Station and, based on the lessons learned, will subsequently be rolled out to other stations.

Key Highlights of the Reforms

1. AI-Powered Surveillance Network

• Comprehensive camera coverage across platforms, concourses, entry-exit points, and funnel areas.
• Real-time monitoring through an Exception Event Display-based control room, where AI alerts staff to unusual or unsafe events.
• Minister Vaishnaw described cameras as the “eyes” and AI as the “brain” of the system.
• Railway Protection Force (RPF) to shift from manual checks to surveillance-led monitoring, ensuring only ticketed passengers gain entry.

2. Colour-Coded Uniforms & ID Cards

• Fluorescent jackets for railway employees.
• Distinct colour-coded jackets for non-employees such as vendors, sahayaks, IRCTC staff, and contractual workers.
• Mandatory ID cards with detailed identification to enhance accountability and streamline security checks.
• System to be replicated across the North Zone and later nationwide.

3. QR Code-Based Access Control

• Pilot project at New Delhi Station ahead of Diwali & Chhath festival rush.
• Segregated entry for Reserved ticket holders, Monthly Season Ticket holders, and Unreserved passengers.
• Designed to reduce congestion and improve passenger flow.

4. RailOne App Integration with Bharat Taxi

• Seamless last-mile connectivity through integration with Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative-led ride-hailing platform.
• Developed in collaboration with RailTel to reduce chaos outside station premises.
• Supports the government’s “Sahkar se Samriddhi” vision by strengthening cooperative-led mobility solutions.

5. Holding Areas for Crowd Management

• Designated holding zones for Unreserved travellers at 76 stations.
• Controlled, phased access to platforms to prevent overcrowding.
• Improved signage and upgraded train information services to keep passengers informed.

Broader Impact

These reforms reflect Indian Railways’ commitment to leveraging technology and infrastructure upgrades to enhance passenger safety, comfort, and convenience. By piloting innovations at New Delhi Station and scaling them across the network, the Railways aims to deliver a seamless travel experience from station entry to last-mile connectivity for millions of daily commuters.

The initiative also underscores the government’s push towards AI-driven governance, cooperative-led solutions, and citizen-centric infrastructure development, setting a new benchmark for urban mobility in India.