Bengaluru, globally known as India’s IT capital, is now fast emerging as a dynamic hub for pharma and life sciences. With a strong base of global capability centers (GCCs), cutting-edge research institutions, vibrant start-ups, and a skilled talent pool, the city is well positioned to drive the next wave of healthcare innovation. This was the central theme at the Bengaluru Pharma Summit during the panel discussion “Bengaluru – An Emerging Global Innovation Gateway
Bengaluru’s Growing Pharma Strength
The panel, moderated by Elayaraja Natarajan, Vice President – R&D, Lyrus Life Sciences, featured leading voices from the sector including
- Ishwar Bajaj, Fermentation R&D Head, Biocon
- Dr Sachin Mundade, Vice President – R&D, Micro Labs
- Mayank Garg, Group MSAT Head, Biocon Biologics
- Dr Goutam Pujari, Member – Board of Directors, Apotex Research
- Dr Maloy Ghosh, Chief Scientific Officer, Zumutor Biologics
- Loganathan S, Associate Vice President, Onesource Biopharma
Collectively, they underscored how Bengaluru is transforming into a life sciences hub of global relevance. The city is uniquely positioned to help India expand beyond its traditional strength in generics to more complex biologics, biosimilars, and specialty medicines
Policy Push: Karnataka’s GCC Advantage
A highlight of the discussion was the Government of Karnataka’s GCC policy, which provides:
- Incentives for smaller centers
- Apprenticeship and skill development support
- Monitoring and facilitation mechanisms
This policy framework is accelerating capability-building, enabling R&D, and fostering innovation at scale
Collaboration as the Innovation Driver
Panelists emphasized that the pharma industry’s risk-averse mindset often slows innovation. The solution lies in collaboration. Industry–academia partnerships can link research with application, incubation centers can nurture ideas into scalable businesses, and start-up ecosystems can accelerate disruptive innovations. Such collaboration can break barriers, de-risk experimentation, and create win–win outcomes for all stakeholders
Talent, Learning, and Digital Fluency
Bengaluru’s talent pool, coupled with its digital-first culture, is a key differentiator. The city offers skilled researchers, tech-savvy professionals, and a start-up mindset. The panel also stressed the importance of continuous learning and process improvement to meet evolving industry challenges
Digital Transformation in Pharma
Another recurring theme was the role of digital transformation. Advanced technologies in research, manufacturing, and compliance are reshaping the pharma sector. Benefits include higher efficiency and accuracy, improved product quality, and stronger global competitiveness
Conclusion: Bengaluru’s Innovation Edge
The session closed with a strong message: Bengaluru’s strength lies in its ability to integrate technology with talent, encourage collaboration, and embrace continuous innovation. By doing so, the city can help India transition from being the “pharmacy of the world” to a global leader in innovation-driven healthcare
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