India is emerging as a huge opportunity for growth in innovation in biotechnology. The country is part of the global strategies for partnerships in contract research, clinical trials and co development and manufacture. The biggest strength of the county is manufacture of affordable drugs. This is because low cost of production and high skill base, two ideal ingredients for innovative research in the global markets, stated Dr Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, head, vision group on biotechnology and chairman managing director, Biocon Limited at the inaugural of the Bangalore Bio 2007.

The biotech sector in the country is experiencing a positive change with increasing resources in manpower and a phase of reverse brain drain. There is impressive infrastructure, apart from capabilities in manufacturing and clinical trials. There is increasing acceptance for clinical trial data by US FDA and EMEA. "We are also rapidly pursuing in drug discovery. The country poses a huge opportunity in innovation with companies going in for a change mindset from generics to innovative drugs", stated Dr Shaw.

In order to support the growth, the country now is in need for a large animal facility for primates. In terms of regulatory approvals, there is need for personnel who can handle approval of New Genetically Modified Drugs. With regards to funding the sector, the venture capitalists are more positive to look at small risk business but it is still a challenge to support innovation.

India is also emerging as a hub for contract research and clinical trials. We are the largest producer of vaccines. This apart the country also has the inked the highest number of transnational partnerships.