Centre formulating R&D policy to bolster drug discovery 

Context: The Centre will soon unveil a new Research & Development (R&D) policy to boost drug discovery and the manufacture of medical devices in the country.

Details:

• Numerous production-linked incentives are also on the anvil.
• The government proposes to set up three major manufacturing parks including one in Hyderabad, with an investment of ₹1,000 crores each to help drive import substitution of basic raw materials, active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and the making of medical devices.
• There had to be renewed focus on bringing together research institutions, academia and the industry to identify new chemicals, update processes and discover new drug delivery systems.
• Current approval processes were archaic and that there was a dire need to strengthen institutions and recognise scientists’ role in new discoveries, and to help them commercialise the projects. So, they too can ‘become millionaires’.
• The Centre has so far received 13 requests for setting up the bulk drug parks.

Reference- https://www.thehindu.com/business/centre-formulating-rd-policy-to-bolster-drug-discovery/article32282058.ece