The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) has urged its members to file fresh applications under the production linked incentive (PLI) scheme announced by the Department of Pharmaceuticals for the promotion of domestic manufacturing of select key starting materials (KSMs), drug intermediates, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This initiative aims to strengthen India's self-reliance in pharmaceutical raw material production and reduce import dependence on critical inputs.
Confirming the development, Raja Bhanu, director general Pharmexcil, said, "This round of PLI applications opens a significant window for Indian pharma manufacturers to step up and invest in the domestic production of high-value, critical drug components. We urge all eligible member companies to make full use of this opportunity, which aligns with our long-term goal of securing India’s pharmaceutical supply chain."
The PLI scheme outlines the eligible product categories, expected production capacities, and the maximum number of beneficiaries for each item. Interested manufacturers can apply online through the designated portal https://plibulkdrugs.ifciltd.com/ until June 14, 2025.
The Department has made it clear that companies with poor past performance or non-compliance records will not be eligible for consideration under the scheme.
The detailed scheme guidelines, including eligibility criteria and application procedures, are available at the Department of Pharmaceuticals website: https://pharma-dept.gov.in/schemes.
Pharmexcil has encouraged its members to carefully study the list of eligible products and assess potential areas for expansion or entry. Raja Bhanu emphasized, “This is not just a subsidy program — it's a strategic push for long-term competitiveness. We see this as a foundation for India to become a resilient global pharma hub.”
Applications must be submitted online before the deadline of June 14, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be entertained.
Fermentation-based KSMs/drug intermediates/APIs include erythromycin thiocyanate (TIOC) with a minimum annual production capacity of 800 metric ton (MT) and a total available production capacity of 1600 MT with 2 as the maximum number of applicants selected.
Neomycin with a minimum annual production capacity of 80 MT and a total available production capacity of 160 MT with 2 as the maximum number of applicants selected. Gentamycin with a minimum annual production capacity of 40 MT and a total available production capacity of 80 MT with 2 as the maximum number of applicants selected.
Clindamycin base with a minimum annual production capacity of 60 MT and a total available production capacity of 120 MT with 2 as the maximum number of applicants selected. Streptomycin with a minimum annual production capacity of 50 MT and a total available production capacity of 100 MT with 2 as the maximum number of applicants selected. Tetracycline with a minimum annual production capacity of 200 MT and a total available production capacity of 400 MT with 2 as the maximum number of applicants selected.
Other chemical synthesis based KSMs/drug intermediates/APIs include ciprofloxacin with a minimum annual production capacity of 150 MT and a total available production capacity of 600 MT with 4 as the maximum number of applicants selected. Diclofenac sodium with a minimum annual production capacity of 175 MT and a total available production capacity of 175 MT with 1 as the maximum number of applicants selected.
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