In a significant development at the 73rd edition of the Indian Pharmaceutical Congress (IPC), the Telangana government had endorsed a proposal from pharmacy professionals to establish a dedicated Pharmaceutical University in the state.

This move aims to bolster pharmaceutical education, which is crucial for advancing manufacturing, research and development (R&D) programmes, and implementing digital technology in the sector.

73rd IPC, held from 5 to 7 July in Hyderabad, which witnessed more than 12000 delegates from Academia, Industry, Research and Development and Healthcare sector from across India, have pitched for the establishment of a Pharma University with a Centre of Excellence in Telangana to enhance global recognition in life sciences.

Telangana, already a hub for bulk drugs, vaccine development, and pharmaceutical formulations, contributes 40 percent to India's export earnings and boasts a large pool of highly qualified pharmacy professionals, making it an ideal location for the proposed university.

Telangana's Minister for Information Technology and Industries, Duddilla Sridhar Babu, announced the acceptance of the Pharma University proposal at the IPC event's inauguration. "We are on the job to put in place the framework and processes to conceive the university," said Babu. He highlighted the presence of over 200 pharmacy colleges and the existing pool of scientific and technically qualified human resources as key factors necessitating the establishment of a dedicated Pharma University.

The event also saw the attendance of Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Minister for Roads, Buildings, and Cinematography Komatireddy Venkat Reddy as chief guests.

Babu further revealed that Telangana is working towards establishing a Skill Development and Digital Technology University. He emphasised the need for an advanced workforce equipped with digital skills, highlighting the importance of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotic technology in the pharma industry.

Deputy Chief Minister Vikramarka added that Telangana is planning to decentralise pharmaceutical production from Hyderabad to the outskirts and districts, fostering job creation and overcoming employment challenges. "We are setting up an Artificial Intelligence City to boost comprehensive digital technology implementation, bringing speed and transparency to manufacturing," said Vikramarka.