The Torture Evolution of the Indian Pharmaceutical Industry: Government Policy, Industry Structure and Technological Development

The pharmaceutical industry has featured prominently in various financial dailies and management magazines recently due to the government’s decision to sign the Dunkel Agreement. Over the years the industry has acquired significance due to the phenomenal growth it has experienced. In recent years exports also has increased by leaps and bounds. However, India’s share of the worldwide market is still minuscule but the potential is large. This paper presents the findings of a study designed to understand the process of technology development in the pharmaceutical industry and the nature of interaction between firms and relevant technology institutions. The first part of the paper describes (a) the evolution of the industry in historical perspective, (b) the structure of the industry, (c) government’s role in the development of the industry. The second part presents the findings of (a) an interview based survey of 18 selected firms and (b) a mail survey of 21 firms. Some case studies of technology management in selected firms are also discussed. Finally major implications for firms, technology institutions and the government are discussed.