New Delhi’s pharmaceutical landscape is thriving on the world stage. India’s drug sector ranks third globally by production volume and 11th by value, powered by over 3,000 firms and 10,500+ manufacturing facilities.
Valued at $60 billion today, the home market is set to surge to $130 billion by the end of the decade. The Economic Survey 2025-26 reports FY 2024-25 revenues climbing to Rs 4.72 lakh crore, fueled by a consistent 7 percent annual export growth over the last 10 years.
India leads as the top generic drug exporter, holding 20 percent of global generics supply with 60,000 products spanning 60 medical categories. This dominance stems from advanced manufacturing, rising exports, FDI inflows, and pro-industry policies that cut import reliance and expand market reach.
Quality remains paramount, evidenced by the most USFDA-approved plants outside America. Around 500 API producers account for 8 percent of worldwide API output. In vaccines, India spearheads DPT, BCG, and measles supplies—meeting 60 percent of UNICEF’s needs, 40-70 percent of global DPT/BCG demand, and 90 percent of WHO measles requirements.
Trade pacts on the horizon with EU, UK, and New Zealand will unlock fresh avenues for growth, jobs, and investments. Pharma exports soared to $30.5 billion in FY 2024-25, up 16 times from $1.9 billion two decades ago. Innovation, affordability, and reliability have not only transformed Indian healthcare but also cemented the nation’s role as a global health guardian.