India to make drugs for diabetes, obesity under PLI by 2026, says report

India plans to offer incentives to promote local manufacturing of GLP-1 drugs by 2026, aimed at treating diabetes and obesity. Originally approved for diabetes, GLP-1 drugs, such as semaglutide, used in popular medications like Wegovy and Ozempic, are increasingly recognized for aiding weight loss by slowing digestion. As Novo Nordisk's semaglutide patent expires in India in 2026, pharmaceutical companies in India have applied for the government's production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Mr. Arunish Chawla, confirmed that these companies will receive the incentives once manufacturing begins post-patent expiry.

The market potential for anti-obesity medications is substantial, with projections by Goldman Sachs Research suggesting it could reach US$ 100 billion by 2030. In India, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. is advancing its weight-loss formulation. At the same time, Cipla Ltd. and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. are focusing on developing generic drugs for weight loss. India's high obesity rates, made worse by increased junk food consumption, underscore the urgent need for effective treatments.

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