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Odisha sets up OPDC to make the state a pharmaceutical powerhouse
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Shardul Nautiyal, Mumbai
January 09 , 2025
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In order to establish Odisha as a global leader in pharmaceuticals, Odisha has unveiled a strategic action plan with the setting up of Odisha Pharmaceutical Development Cell (OPDC).
Operating under the direct supervision of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) and chaired by the Chief Secretary, the OPDC aims to attract global investments, foster innovation, and establish the state as a pharmaceutical powerhouse.
Mamina Patnaik, Odisha State Drugs Controller, has been appointed as the Nodal Officer and Convener of the OPDC, reinforcing the state’s commitment to structured and focused leadership in the sector. Drugs inspector from Directorate of Drugs Control, Odisha, Bhubaneswar Chandan Kumar Giri has been asked to work as the coordinator of OPDC. The Cell will bridge the gap between government and investors, facilitating collaborations, Special Economic Zone (SEZ) developments, and spearheading the formulation of the Odisha Pharmaceutical Policy 2025.
Under the guidance of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha is aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India the "Pharmacy of the World." Key milestones include the inauguration of the Central Drugs Testing Laboratory (CDTL) and the establishment of a Sub-Zonal office of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in Bhubaneswar. These initiatives are laying a robust foundation for regulatory and testing infrastructure in the region.
Odisha Chief Minister Majhi remarked, "Odisha’s resilience during the Covid-19 pandemic showcased our commitment to the nation. With the establishment of OPDC, we are taking concrete steps to position our state as the pharmaceutical hub of Eastern India, creating opportunities for our youth and contributing to global healthcare."
The OPDC is tasked with transforming Odisha into a globally recognized pharmaceutical hub through policy formulation. The Odisha Pharmaceutical Policy 2025 will offer investment incentives, R&D support, and skill development frameworks.
A world-class Pharmaceutical SEZ is being planned in the Khurdha-Balasore corridor, offering state-of-the-art facilities to investors. Aiming to create over 500,000 jobs by 2036, the initiative will focus on skill enhancement and industry growth. Eco-friendly manufacturing and Pharma Funds will drive high-risk, high-reward R&D projects, ensuring long-term growth and innovation.
The OPDC plans to attract Rs. 50,000 crores in investments through initiatives like the upcoming Pharmaceutical CEO Conclave. This platform will bring national and international pharmaceutical giants to Odisha, leveraging the state’s strategic proximity to Paradip and Dhamra ports for global exports.
With its ambitious plans and strong leadership, Odisha is setting benchmarks in pharmaceutical innovation, sustainability, and industrial growth. The collaborative efforts of the government and industry leaders are paving the way for the state to become a vibrant and self-reliant pharmaceutical hub, creating a significant impact on India’s healthcare landscape.
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