New Delhi, Oct 2
The government has called for proposals under the Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech Sector (PRIP) scheme for industry and startup projects worth about Rs 11,000 crore.
The Department of Pharmaceuticals has invited applications for research and innovation projects under its PRIP scheme, a landmark initiative to transform the sector into a globally competitive, innovation-driven sector.
With an approved outlay of Rs 5,000 crore, the scheme is expected to catalyse a Pharma-MedTech innovation pipeline by supporting around 300 projects involving total R&D investment of about Rs 11,000 crore in new medicines, complex generics, biosimilars and novel medical devices.
The Department has notified amendments to the scheme as notified earlier and issued revised guidelines.
Under the amended scheme, for early stage projects, MSMEs and startups may apply for projects costing up to Rs 9 crore for assistance of up to Rs 5 crore.
For later stage projects, projects of industry, MSMEs and startups costing up to Rs 285 crore may apply for assistance up to Rs 100 crore.
The scale of financial assistance for early stage projects is 100 per cent for cost up to Rs 1 crore and 50 per cent of additional cost beyond Rs 1 crore, subject to a maximum up to Rs 5 crore. The scale for financial assistance for later stage projects is 35 per cent of project cost, subject to a maximum of Rs 100 crore.
Further, with a view to strengthen India's health security framework in areas of high public health significance but relatively lower market potential, identified as Strategic Priority Innovation (SPI) areas, the amended scheme provides that assistance for later stage projects may be to the extent of 50 per cent, subject to a maximum of Rs 100 crore.
Such SPI areas include specified rare diseases, antimicrobial resistance, vaccine-preventable diseases, tropical vector-borne diseases and outbreak/pandemic-causing pathogens.
Besides financial assistance, the amended scheme provides for development of strong institutional enablers to further nurture the innovation journey, said the government.
"The application window has opened on October 1, 2025 through a dedicated portal to drive a fully digital application process," it added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great initiative but implementation is key. Hope the funds reach genuine innovators and not just established players. The digital application process is a good step to reduce corruption. Let's see how this transforms our medical research landscape.
As someone working in a biotech startup, this scheme is a game-changer! The 100% funding for early stage projects up to ₹1 crore will help many young companies. Finally, government support that understands startup challenges. 🙌
The focus on antimicrobial resistance and tropical diseases is crucial for India. These are areas where Western pharma companies often don't invest enough. Smart move to prioritize our specific health challenges. Hope this leads to affordable treatments for common people.
While the scheme looks promising, I'm concerned about the bureaucratic hurdles. Previous government schemes often got stuck in red tape. Hope this one has proper monitoring and timely disbursement of funds. The success will depend on execution.
This could make India the pharmacy of the world in innovation too, not just generics! The strategic priority areas show good planning. Let's hope our scientists and entrepreneurs deliver world-class research. Jai Hind! 💊🔬
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