Baddi MSMEs Encouraged To Adhere Quality & Adopt Eco-Friendly Practices

Baddi, Jul 17 (KNN) In a significant development for India's pharmaceutical sector, Joint Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Palka Sahni, has called for a renewed focus on environmental sustainability and quality assurance in the industrial cluster of Baddi.

Speaking at a national conference on Good Manufacturing Practices, Sahni highlighted the pressing need to address increasing anti-microbial resistance in the region, reported Tribune.

The conference, organised by the Department of Pharmaceuticals in collaboration with PHDCCI, brought together key stakeholders to discuss enhancing pharmaceutical quality assurance.

Sahni praised Baddi's emergence as a prominent player in the international pharmaceutical market but emphasised the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.

"While the industry is significantly contributing to our gross domestic product, it's crucial that we also consider the environmental impact and protect our groundwater resources for future generations," she stated.

The Joint Secretary urged pharmaceutical manufacturers to become self-reliant in bulk drug production, reducing dependence on other nations. She also stressed the importance of maintaining high-quality standards, ensuring products pass all levels of testing.

To support the industry's growth and compliance with international standards, Sahni encouraged investors to take advantage of the Revamped Pharmaceutical Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme.

This initiative offers financial assistance for upgrading manufacturing facilities, with expectations of 300 MSME entrepreneurs applying by year-end.

Sahni also highlighted the upcoming Rs 1,000-crore bulk drug park at Haroli as an opportunity for MSMEs to enhance their export orientation and efficiency.

The park is expected to provide common facilities such as effluent treatment plants and testing labs, potentially attracting 70 to 80 units from Himachal Pradesh.

Reflecting on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, Sahni emphasised the need for domestic production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and key materials to reduce reliance on imports. She urged MSMEs to focus on bulk drug manufacturing to address this vulnerability in the supply chain.

(KNN Bureau)