Panel Discussion: AI, talent and technology: The new FR&D toolkit

FDD Conclave 2026 | 6th August 2026 | Ahmedabad Connect


Panellists in this video:
♦ Dr Tushar N Mehta, VP – Respiratory and Advanced Analytical R&D, Amneal Pharmaceuticals (MODERATOR)
♦ Mr Nilesh Malaviya, Head – Formulation Development, Alembic Pharmaceuticals
♦ Dr Sanju Dhawan, Sr Director GPRD & Site Leader, Baxter Pharmaceuticals India
♦ Dr Dhaval Pethani, Co-Founder and CTO, Cutyx Research LLP
♦ Dr Prabhat Shrivastava, Associate Director and Vertical Head (Formulation and Packaging Development), Piramal Pharma Solutions, Ahmedabad
♦ Dr Vinod Venkatpurwar, Sr GM, Formulation Development, Cadila Pharmaceuticals
♦ Dr Ajay Vairale, Sr GM, Cadila Pharmaceuticals
♦ Dr Sunny P Desai, Sr Manager (Site Lead) – MS&T (Technology Transfer), Zydus Lifesciences

Key Highlights:
[1] AI is transforming formulation development from trial-and-error to predict-and-design, enabling faster, smarter decisions.

[2] Manufacturability and scale-up must be built into product development from the pre-formulation stage, not addressed at the end.

[3] Digital twins, AI models and electronic lab notebooks can reduce scale-up failures, eliminate repetitive work and speed up technology transfer.

[4] AI is only as powerful as the quality of the data behind it. A strong digital foundation is the first step towards successful AI adoption.

[5] The real value of AI lies in rethinking systems, with connected data, traceable workflows and integrated digital processes.

[6] AI should augment, not replace scientists. Human expertise, judgement and accountability remain central to every development decision.

[7] Successful AI adoption depends on strong governance, ethical use and protecting confidential organisational data.

[8] The future belongs to AI-enabled scientists who understand both the potential and the limitations of AI, and use it to bring medicines to patients faster.

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