New Delhi, September 13 (Daily Kiran) : India has established itself as the world’s largest vaccine producer and a key global supplier, according to Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science and Technology. Speaking at a high-level welcome ceremony in New Delhi for the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), he emphasized that India’s diverse health challenges, robust scientific capabilities, and rapidly advancing biotechnology sector position the country uniquely for vaccine research and pandemic preparedness.
Dr. Singh noted the remarkable progress India has made in pandemic preparedness over the past decade. The nation now boasts a strong bio-economy and advanced vaccine development capabilities, along with a scientific ecosystem that can significantly contribute to addressing future global pandemics and health crises.
The event was jointly organized by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and CEPI, featuring prominent leaders from CEPI, members of the investor council, policymakers, scientists, industry representatives, and experts in vaccine development and pandemic preparedness.
Highlighting India’s long-standing partnership with CEPI, Dr. Singh praised the scientists, researchers, and institutions that have played vital roles in positioning India as a leader in the global vaccine and biomedicine sector.
He pointed to the substantial transformations within India’s biotechnology sector over the last ten years. By 2025, the country’s bio-economy is projected to reach $195.3 billion, reflecting an annual growth rate of 18%. The biotech startup ecosystem has also expanded, growing to 11,855 startups, including 1,780 new ones launched in 2025. The biopharma sector accounts for approximately 30% of India’s total bio-economy.
Dr. Singh noted that India’s advancements are most evident in the vaccine sector. The country is now recognized not only for producing affordable vaccines but also for its research, innovation, advanced biologics, clinical development, and large-scale manufacturing capabilities.
Currently, India supplies vaccines to over 100 countries, contributing nearly 60% of global vaccine production. Moreover, India meets more than 65% of the needs for the World Health Organization’s regular vaccination programs.
He emphasized that the capabilities developed during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrate India’s ability to meet domestic needs and play a crucial role in global health security. For future pandemic preparedness, he stressed the importance of continuous investment in research, innovation, global collaboration, and robust health infrastructure.
India’s growing scientific capacity, developed vaccine manufacturing network, expanding bio-economy, and strong startup ecosystem position the country as a leading center for next-generation pandemic preparedness and global health solutions.
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