Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh is rapidly positioning itself as a key destination for medical technology and pharmaceutical manufacturing, aiming to become a global hub for high-end medical devices and critical drugs. The state’s push aligns with India’s broader strategy to diversify global healthcare supply chains and reduce dependence on China under the “China-plus-one” approach.
New Policies and Investment Incentives Drive Growth
The state government recently announced the Uttar Pradesh Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Policy, 2023, offering fiscal incentives and a one-stop approval mechanism for investors.
Officials are now engaging with global companies like Philips and GE HealthCare to set up manufacturing units at the YEIDA Medical Device Park near Jewar, while Indian pharmaceutical leaders from companies such as Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories have been invited for discussions on investment and infrastructure requirements.
YEIDA Medical Device Park: India’s First Integrated Med-Tech Hub
Spread over 350 acres near the Yamuna Expressway, the park is designed for high-end and critical care medical devices, including oncology, radiology, anaesthetics, cardio-respiratory, implants, and in-vitro diagnostics.
Currently, over 100 units have been allotted:
- 3 in cancer care
- 16 in radiology and imaging
- 23 in implants
- 37 in anaesthetics and cardio-respiratory devices
- 22 in in-vitro diagnostics
The government plans to offer additional policy support for cancer care units to strengthen India’s domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Bulk Drug Parks for Strategic Diversification
Uttar Pradesh is also developing bulk drug parks using state funding after missing out on central schemes. These parks aim to manufacture active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), drug intermediates, and key starting materials, reducing India’s reliance on imports from China.
- Lalitpur: 1,500-acre bulk drug park with environmental clearance
- Bundelkhand near Jhansi: 28,000 acres available for expansion or new pharma hubs
The state plans to invest around ₹2,000 crore in bulk drug parks and ₹350–500 crore in medical technology parks. A single-window clearance system, skill development programs, and technical support are being provided to streamline operations for investors.
Strong Healthcare and Research Base Supports Growth
UP boasts a strong healthcare and research infrastructure:
- Lucknow: CDRI, CIMAP, ITRC, NBRI
- Rae Bareli: NIPER
- Major hospitals: King George’s Medical University, SGPGIMS, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute
This ecosystem supports clinical trials, skill development, and product validation, attracting global and domestic investment in med-tech and pharma.
Strategic Timing Amid Global Supply Chain Shifts
Geopolitical tensions, pandemic disruptions, and tighter export controls have made countries rethink dependence on China. Uttar Pradesh’s push to attract investment comes as global manufacturers seek reliable alternatives for high-value medical equipment and pharmaceutical products.
Experts say the state’s location, infrastructure, incentives, and industrial policy make it a potential long-term manufacturing hub for India and global markets.
State Leadership Drives Investor Confidence
Dr. G.N. Singh, advisor to CM Yogi Adityanath, highlighted ongoing talks with Japanese manufacturers and Indian pharma leaders to establish UP as a trusted alternative for high-end medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
Industry experts believe that Uttar Pradesh’s proactive policies, infrastructure, and regulatory support create a strong value proposition for investors and could position the state as a global healthcare manufacturing hub.
Read also: Uttar Pradesh Emerges from ‘Bimaru’ Tag to Become India’s Growth Engine: CM Yogi on UP Day
