Top biotech companies in India

In recent years, India’s biotechnology sector has experienced remarkable growth. Biotech companies create innovative products and tackle complex challenges. They make breakthroughs in decoding DNA and identifying critical genetic traits, leading to innovations like biofuels and pest-resistant crops. The dynamic nature of this industry has attracted talent and clients. India now ranks amongst the top 12 global biotech destinations, thanks to the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) efforts under the Ministry of Science and Technology.

The industry has also played a crucial role in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, producing vaccines, antivirals and diagnostic tests. This response has boosted healthcare and driven growth in real estate. The need for more research labs, factories and medical facilities led to more real estate development, making things look promising for India’s real estate industry. This article presents an overview of India’s leading biotech companies, contributing to public health and the nation’s prosperity.

See also: List of top 10 pharmaceutical companies in India

 

Business landscape in India

India rapidly emerges as a global economic powerhouse, poised to secure the seventh spot among emerging markets. With a projected GDP growth rate of 7% by FY2023, as per industry reports, India’s market entry procedures and collaborations have improved. Key sectors such as biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and infrastructure are thriving. E-commerce experiences rapid expansion and infrastructure development, including road and rail networks, presents substantial investment prospects. These sectors are driven by a skilled workforce, digitalisation, government initiatives and rising consumer demand, making India an enticing destination for global expansion. With its population, technological advancements and diverse demands, India remains a strategic choice for international businesses seeking growth and success.

 

Top biotech companies in India

Serum Institute Of India

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Diagnostic, Testing Labs, Research

Company type: Private

Location: Off Soli Poonawalla Road, Pune, Maharashtra – 411028

Founded: 1966

Serum Institute of India is the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, producing and distributing over 1.5 billion doses of vaccines globally. Its wide range of vaccines includes Polio, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, COVID-19, and more, contributing to immunisation programs in approximately 170 countries. Established in 1966 by Dr Cyrus Poonawalla, this Pune-based company has pioneered providing affordable life-saving vaccines and other biotechnology products to the masses.

 

Panacea Biotec

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Biotechnology

Company type: Public

Location: Mohan Cooperative Industrial Estate, Mathura Road, New Delhi, Delhi – 110044

Founded: 1984

Panacea Biotec, established in 1984, is an innovation-driven biotechnology company headquartered in New Delhi, India. It focuses on research, development, manufacturing and distribution of pharmaceuticals and vaccines. Panacea Biotec also boasts USFDA-approved pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities and WHO-prequalified vaccine production units. Panacea Biotec is renowned for its contributions to global health, primarily through its supply of WHO Prequalified Polio vaccines to over 50 countries.

 

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: MNC

Location: Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400030

Founded: 1924

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, established in 1924, is a significant player in India’s pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. The company has embarked on a strategic journey to separate into two entities: New GSK, specialising in speciality medicines and vaccines, and a consumer healthcare organisation. With a focus on research and development, it is dedicated to advancing healthcare solutions in infectious diseases, HIV, respiratory/immunology and oncology.

 

Bharat Serums and Vaccines

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology

Company type: Private

Location: Kalwa Industrial Estate, Airoli, Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400708

Founded: 1971

Bharat Serums and Vaccines (BSV), founded in 1971, is a prominent biotech company in India. Specialising in biological formulations, biotech, and pharmaceutical products, BSV has made significant strides in women’s health, critical care and IUI-IVF treatments. Its commitment to research and development has positioned it as a preferred partner in these therapeutic areas.

 

Biocon

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: Public

Location: Bangalore / Bengaluru / Karnataka – 560100

Founded: 1978

Biocon, founded by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, is a pioneering biopharmaceutical company in India. It is renowned for its innovative research and development in the field. Based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, Biocon’s focus areas include diabetes, cancer, autoimmune conditions and biotechnology therapies. The company has a global presence, with several products and services reaching more than 170 countries.

 

Wockhardt

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: Public

Location: Bandra (East), Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400051

Founded: 1960

Wockhardt is a multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company with a turnover of Rs 1410 crores in 2022. With a strong presence in India, the USA, the UK, Ireland and France, Wockhardt is known for its pharmaceutical and biotech products, including formulations, biopharmaceuticals, nutrition products and vaccines. The company is committed to innovation and growth through acquisitions and partnerships.

 

Novo Nordisk

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: Private

Location: Whitefield, Bangalore / Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560066

Founded: 1923

Novo Nordisk, headquartered in Denmark with its India headquarters in Bangalore, is a private pharmaceutical company with a rich history dating back to 1923. It is a global leader in diabetes care medications and devices, hemostasis management, growth hormone therapy and hormone replacement therapy. Novo Nordisk’s mission is to defeat diabetes and other chronic diseases, impacting the lives of millions worldwide.

 

Dr. Reddy Laboratories Ltd

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: MNC

Location: Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500034

Founded: 1984

Dr Reddy Laboratories, founded in 1984 by Dr K Anji Reddy, is a prestigious Indian biotech company. Initially manufacturing active substances (APIs), it expanded into formulations and became one of the largest generic drug manufacturers globally. Dr. Reddy has established a strong presence in North America, India and other global markets with a diverse portfolio spanning pharmaceuticals, generics, biosimilars and diagnostics.

 

Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: Public

Location: Mahakali Caves Road, Andheri(E), Mumbai, Maharashtra – 400 093

Founded: 2007

Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company (SPARC) focuses on innovation in research and therapeutics. It is committed to improving patient care by developing innovative drugs. In collaboration with the University of Michigan, SPARC has worked on groundbreaking research in 2020. Its mission is to lower costs, improve operational efficiencies, and advance the availability and affordability of cures for patients worldwide.

 

Syngene International

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: Public

Location: Bommasandra Industrial Area, Bangalore / Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560099

Founded: 1993

Syngene International, a subsidiary of Biocon, plays a pivotal role in the biotech sector. It offers research and innovation services to various industries, including animal health, consumer products, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and speciality chemicals. Syngene International’s extensive services encompass:

• Medical chemistry
• Small molecule development
• Discovery biology
• Safety assessment
• Formulation development

With a strong presence in India and the United States, Syngene contributes significantly to the growth of the biotech sector, and its operations have a substantial impact on the real estate market.

 

Shantha Biotech

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals

Company type: Private

Location: Basheerbagh, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500004

Founded: 1993

Shantha Biotech, a pioneering name in Indian biotechnology, was founded by Dr. K. I. Varaprasad Reddy and Khalil Ahmed. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Sanofi group, Shantha Biotech specialises in designing, producing and marketing recombinant human healthcare solutions. The company’s vaccine development and manufacturing contributions have been pivotal in the healthcare sector. Its contributions to vaccine development include:

• Hepatitis B
• Diphtheria
• Tetanus vaccines

Shantha Biotech continues to lead in the biotechnology sector, demonstrating innovation and dedication to human health.

 

Indian Immunologicals

Industry: Pharmaceuticals, Labs

Sub-industry: Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology

Company type: Public

Location: Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana – 500033

Founded: 1982

Indian Immunologicals, a subsidiary of the National Dairy Development Board, is a significant player in India’s veterinary and human biologicals sector. It manufactures over 150 products and operates one of the world’s largest plants for veterinary vaccines. IIL is known for its contributions to the paediatric and rabies vaccine segments and is a crucial supplier to India’s Universal Immunization Programme.

 

Commercial real estate demand in India

Office space: Biotech companies are fueling the demand for expansive office setups, triggering a surge in India’s commercial real estate market. This trend has led to the proliferation of cutting-edge office complexes and vibrant business hubs in various Indian cities. These spaces meet biotech firms’ needs and foster growth in suburban and peripheral areas, creating dynamic work environments.

Rental property: The presence of biotech companies has impacted the rental property market, delivering advantages to landlords and property owners alike. This influence has resulted in competitive rental rates and an appreciable increase in property values, making it an attractive prospect for savvy investors.

Impact: Beyond reshaping real estate, biotech companies are influencing the development of integrated complexes that seamlessly blend residential, commercial and retail spaces. This holistic approach caters to biotech enterprises’ requirements and nurtures self-sustaining hubs across India, further enhancing the country’s biotech ecosystem.

 

Impact of biotech companies in India

Biotech companies in India are catalysts for economic growth. They harness living cells and DNA technology with strong government support. They were pivotal in COVID-19 vaccine development. This sector’s startups are thriving, propelling India’s economy from $10 billion to $80 billion in 8 years, with a projected $300 billion by 2030, as per industry reports. These firms also influence the real estate market. With a surge in startups and FDA-approved facilities, the sector contributes 2.6% to the GDP. It aims for further expansion, highlighting their global significance and impact on healthcare and real estate.

 

FAQs

What is the significance of biotech companies in India?

Biotech companies in India contribute to advancements in healthcare, agriculture and environmental solutions.

What are some well-known biotech companies in India?

Prominent biotech companies in India include Serum Institute of India, Panacea Biotec, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals, Bharat Serums and Vaccines, Biocon, Wockhardt, Novo Nordisk, Dr. Reddy Laboratories, Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company, Syngene International, Indian Immunologicals and Shantha Biotech.

What areas of biotechnology are Indian companies involved in?

Indian biotech firms are engaged in areas such as Pharmaceuticals, Vaccine production, Genetic engineering and Agricultural biotechnology.

What role do Indian biotech companies play in the global market?

Indian biotech companies are significant players in the global market, supplying affordable medicines and vaccines worldwide.

Are there any Indian biotech companies specialising in genetic research?

Yes, companies such as Genentech and BioGenex focus on genetic research and diagnostics.

What is the contribution of Indian biotech companies to healthcare?

Indian biotech companies produce critical medicines, vaccines and biopharmaceuticals, improving healthcare accessibility.

How does the Indian government support the biotech industry?

The Indian government offers incentives, grants and regulatory support to promote biotech research and innovation.

Are Indian biotech companies involved in vaccine production?

Yes, Indian biotech companies like Bharat Biotech and Serum Institute of India play a vital role in vaccine manufacturing.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com