70% of vaccines sourced by the World Health Organization (WHO) are from India; the United States (US) imports 14% generics

Union Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare and Chemicals & Fertilizers, Ms. Anupriya Patel, stated that 70% of vaccines sourced by the World Health Organization (WHO) and 14% of the generic drugs imported by the United States are from India. Speaking at the Second Policymakers’ Forum organised by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), she emphasised India’s pivotal role in global healthcare, especially through initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), which aims to ensure affordable medicine access via Jan Aushadhi Kendras. These centres have significantly reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenditures for citizens.
She highlighted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, India launched the ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative, supplying vaccines to over 100 friendly nations, reflecting India’s commitment to global health. India continues to be a leader in drug manufacturing, with 70% of its generics exported to highly regulated markets. The country maintains the WHO’s Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT) Maturity Level 3 (ML3) status, affirming the strength of its drug regulatory framework. India also holds the highest number of US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA)-approved drug manufacturing facilities. 15 countries, including Cuba, now recognise the Indian Pharmacopoeia, marking progress in global regulatory harmonisation and enhancing access to safe, effective medicines through improved pharmaceutical trade alignment.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.