UP makes out case for central nod for pharma hub

The Union Cabinet recently gave the nod for setting up four such parks across the country.

In his letter, the Chief Minister made out a case for Noida and Lucknow for setting up the proposed parks. He pointed out that four drug research labs were already situated in Lucknow while many drugs and medical equipment were already being manufactured in the state capital.

On the other hand, Noida is counted among the most developed industrial areas in the country. It will further receive a boost once the upcoming Jewar airport is completed, which will make exports easy.

"Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes to make India a $5-trillion economy in the next five years, the state wants to become a $1-billion economy. Hence, Uttar Pradesh should be allotted four bulk drugs or medical equipment parks," Yogi Adityanath said in his letter.

MSME Principal Secretary Dr. Navneet Sehgal said: "The Centre is considering the pharma hub proposal. A detailed project report is being prepared. Uttar Pradesh is preparing a detailed report. We will begin work as soon as we get the green signal from the Centre."

It is pertinent to mention here that the states where these parks will be set up will be eligible for many relaxations/incentives from the Union government. The Centre will build solvent recovery plants, common effluent treatment plants, and drug testing labs in such parks.

Read also: Telangana: Bulk drug manufacturers operating at 50% capacity despite exemption