Uttar Pradesh's Strategic Initiatives to Boost the Pharmaceutical Sector: Policies and Frameworks
Strengthening Infrastructure, Incentives, and Innovation for Sustainable Growth in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Uttar Pradesh has established a comprehensive framework to enhance its pharmaceutical sector, aiming to attract investments, promote research and development, and foster innovation. This article outlines the key policies and schemes currently in place, focusing on the Uttar Pradesh Pharmaceutical Industry Policy 2018 and the UP Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Policy 2023.
Uttar Pradesh Pharmaceutical Industry Policy 2018:
The Uttar Pradesh Pharmaceutical Industry Policy 2018 was designed to create a conducive environment for the growth of the pharmaceutical sector. The policy's primary objectives include:
- Encouraging cutting-edge pharmaceutical research.
- Establishing specialized pharmaceutical parks with state-of-the-art infrastructure.
- Promoting intellectual property creation within the sector.
- Enhancing human resource development to ensure a skilled workforce.
Key Highlights of the Policy:
- Financial Incentives:
- Patent Filing Subsidy: 100% reimbursement for domestic patent filing costs; 50% for international patents.
- Quality Certification Subsidy: 75% reimbursement for ISO certification costs; 50% for BIS certification.
- Support for R&D Institutes: 60% reimbursement of annual interest on loans taken by R&D institutes.
- Clinical Trials Support: Up to 75% reimbursement of total expenditure incurred during clinical trials.
- Infrastructure Support: Various subsidies including SGST reimbursement, stamp duty exemptions, and electricity duty exemptions under the Uttar Pradesh Industrial Investment & Employment Promotion Policy (IIEPP) 2017.
- Pharma Parks Development: Horizontal Pharma Parks (minimum 10 acres) and Vertical Pharma Parks (minimum 3 acres) are eligible for incentives similar to those provided to private industrial parks under IIEPP 2017.
UP Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Policy 2023:
Launched in 2023, this policy aims to further bolster the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors in Uttar Pradesh by providing additional incentives tailored to different types of manufacturing units.
Key Features of the Policy:
- Capital Subsidy: A capital subsidy of 15% on investments up to ₹200 crore, disbursed in five annual installments.
- Interest Subsidies: Interest subsidies on loans taken for procurement of machinery, infrastructure development, and quality improvement initiatives.
- Electricity Duty Exemption: Full exemption from electricity duty for ten years.
- Waste Management Incentives: Financial support for setting up waste management systems and common boiler projects.
- Research and Development Support:
- Reimbursement of up to 60% of interest on loans taken for R&D purposes.
- Up to 75% reimbursement for clinical trial expenditures.
- Special Packages for Bulk Drug Parks: Additional incentives for units established in designated Bulk Drug Parks and Medical Device Parks.
The policies implemented by Uttar Pradesh reflect a strategic approach to developing its pharmaceutical industry. By offering a range of financial incentives, infrastructure support, and fostering an environment conducive to research and development, Uttar Pradesh aims to position itself as a leading hub in the pharmaceutical sector. These initiatives not only support local manufacturers but also contribute significantly to India's broader goal of becoming a global leader in pharmaceuticals, ensuring access to affordable medicines worldwide.