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 The Indian Vaccine Manufacturers Association (IVMA) has announced Dr Krishna M Ella, a distinguished scientist and successful entrepreneur, as the association’s new president for a two-year period from April 2024-2026.
Dr Ella, co-founder, executive chairman, Bharat Biotech, acknowledged as the father of Genome Valley, and known for his pioneering work in biotechnology with his leadership in the biotech industry, is set to steer the Association towards new horizons in vaccine development and production.
He takes over the Presidency from Adar C Poonawala who held the post from 2019 to March 2024. For the current 2-year term, Mahima Datla, managing director, Biological E assumes the role of vice president, T Srinivas, CFO, Bharat Biotech, will be treasurer and Dr Harshavardhan, will continue as director general of IVMA.
"Vaccines are the vital pillar of global health, and the IVMA mission is to ensure that every individual, regardless of where they live, has access to life-saving immunizations. Innovation, sustainability, and equity are the foundations of our collective vision, and I am pleased to serve IVMA along with its distinguished members and contribute to its vision to protect and enhance public health in India and the developing world," said Dr Ella.
He emphasized the need to support African nations' public health vision by IVMA members and also urged to formulate policies and regulations in line with WHO and US FDA, which will help the industry to be not only globally competitive but also fortify India’s vision to boost the level playing field world-over in preventive care.
His appointment comes at a critical time when the world is grappling with emerging infectious diseases and the need for preventative vaccine research and development, and access to safe and affordable vaccines, is more pressing than ever, said IVMA adding that under Dr. Ellas's leadership, the aim is to fortify collaboration between vaccine manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers to accelerate the development of new vaccines and improve production processes. Most importantly fosters the growth of startups, industry-academia, as well as public-private- partnerships.
“Dr Ella’s expertise and entrepreneurial spirit are exactly what the vaccine industry needs to navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century. His commitment to innovation and global health equity is well known, and it will undoubtedly help lead the industry in bringing transformative advancements in vaccine innovation, research, and manufacturing capabilities of India," Dr Harshavardhan, said.
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