India emerges life sciences Global Capability Centres (GCCs) hub, 25 global players onboard: EY report

India has rapidly emerged as a global hub for life sciences Global Capability Centres (GCCs), with 23 of the top 50 global life sciences companies establishing operations in the country over the past five years, according to an EY report titled Reimagining Life Sciences Global Capability Centres (GCCs). Today, life sciences GCCs in India manage 70% of finance, 75% of Human Resources (HR), 62% of supply chain, and 67% of Information Technology (IT) functions for their global parent organisations. Beyond enabling functions, these centres now play a pivotal role in drug discovery, development, regulatory affairs, medical affairs, and commercial operations, underscoring India’s growing importance in global pharmaceutical innovation and value creation.

The report highlights that life sciences GCCs in India are evolving into strategic innovation partners, increasingly leading global mandates in clinical trials, pharmacovigilance, digital therapeutics, and real-world evidence analytics, often leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance R&D and patient-centric outcomes. Policy support from state and central governments, a strong talent pool of 2.7 million life sciences professionals, India’s thriving startup ecosystem with over 100 unicorns, and availability of world-class commercial spaces are driving this growth. With GCCs set to function as twins of their global counterparts, the next phase of expansion will be shaped by future-ready capabilities, outcome-driven models, and multi-disciplinary, AI-powered talent, positioning India as the innovation backbone of the global life sciences sector.

Disclaimer: This information has been collected through secondary research and IBEF is not responsible for any errors in the same.