Context:
Recently, the union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers and Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India launched the Scheme for promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech Sector (PRIP).
Relevance:
GS II: Health
Dimensions of the Article:
- PRIP Scheme
- Components
PRIP Scheme
- The PRIP (Pharmaceutical Research and Innovation in Pharmaceuticals) scheme aims to transition India’s pharmaceutical sector from a cost-based model to one centered on innovation. This transformation will be achieved by bolstering the research infrastructure within the country.
Aim:
- The scheme seeks to foster collaboration between industry and academia to drive research and development (R&D) efforts in priority areas. It also aims to instill a culture of high-quality research and nurture a skilled pool of scientists in India.
Benefits:
- The PRIP scheme is expected to establish a sustainable global competitive advantage for India in the pharmaceutical sector. Additionally, it will contribute to the creation of high-quality employment opportunities in the country.
Duration:
- The scheme will span five years, covering the period from 2023-24 to 2027-28.
Components:
The PRIP scheme comprises two primary components:
Component A: Strengthening Research Infrastructure
- This component focuses on enhancing research infrastructure through the establishment of seven Centers of Excellence (CoEs) at National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs). These CoEs will be strategically located in predefined areas and have a financial allocation of Rs. 700 Crores.
Component B: Promoting Pharmaceutical Research
- Component B aims to promote research in the pharmaceutical sector by encouraging studies in six priority areas, including New Chemical Entities, Complex Generics (including biosimilars), Medical Devices, Stem Cell Therapy, Orphan Drugs, and Anti-Microbial Resistance. Financial support will be extended to industries, MSMEs, SMEs, startups collaborating with government institutions, and for both in-house and academic research. This component has a total financial allocation of Rs. 4250 Crores.
