DoP Invites Fresh PLI Scheme Applications for Meropenem, Ritonavir Manufacturing
New Delhi: The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has invited fresh applications for the manufacture of Meropenem and Ritonavir under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme to support domestic production of critical KSMs, Drug Intermediates and APIs.
The government has reopened the application window to utilise the remaining unallocated production capacity and has clearly stated that only new applicants—those who have never applied earlier for these unsubscribed products—are eligible. Companies that previously received approval but later withdrew, as well as those whose approvals were cancelled under clause 12.11 of the PLI guidelines (later amended to 12.13), have been declared ineligible to apply again for the same products.
The notification specifies the available capacities: Meropenem carries a minimum annual production requirement of 4 MT, with a total capacity of 16 MT and a maximum of four eligible applicants. Ritonavir requires a minimum annual capacity of 5 MT, with 20 MT available in total and a limit of four applicants. These allocations aim to strengthen India’s pharmaceutical manufacturing base and reduce reliance on imported raw materials for essential and high-priority drugs.
Manufacturers meeting the eligibility criteria must submit applications exclusively through the online portal between 27 November 2025 and 26 December 2025. The Department has advised applicants to thoroughly review the detailed scheme guidelines and corrigenda available on its official website before submission. The implementing agency has been directed to keep the portal open for 30 days starting 27 November, ensuring adequate time for applicants to complete the process.
The communication, issued by Under Secretary Suhas Bhuvan, has been circulated to API manufacturers under the PLI Scheme. Copies have also been sent to IFCI for managing the application window and to the Informatics Division of the Department of Pharmaceuticals for uploading the notice on the official website. The government expects this renewed call to expand industry participation and further reinforce India’s position as a self-reliant producer of vital pharmaceutical ingredients.
