Archana Jatkar, Associate Secretary General, IPA began her address by highlighting the dynamic challenges confronting the global pharma industry, from pandemics and geopolitical issues to climate change and rising protectionism. She underscored that in these volatile environment; smarter, more agile supply chains are an imperative.
She also emphasised the need to shift from “just-in-time” to “just-incase” supply chain models. She also called for preparedness through distributed manufacturing, buffer inventory, and enhanced visibility across the supply chain.
She stressed on the urgency for India to de-risk by accelerating the PLI Scheme’s implementation, easing regulatory bottlenecks, and forging strategies to develop alternate sourcing hubs.
Jatkar advocated for a shift from reactive to predictive supply chains. She said that the industry must leverage digital twins, blockchain and data analytics, to anticipate demand and disruptions, while ensuring transparency and traceability. She also urged investments in green solvents, zero liquid discharge systems, and energy efficiency to meet sustainability goals.
Her session also reinforced patient-centricity as the ultimate goal. Drawing on examples of medicine deliveries during lockdowns and digital prescription models, she accentuated the need for empathy-driven supply chains that cater to patients in both routine and crisis conditions.
She concluded by outlining that Indian pharma must co-create global health resilience through partnerships with governments, regulators, and industry players worldwide.
The address concluded with a powerful message—building smart, sustainable, and patient-focused supply chains is both a strategic imperative and a humanitarian duty.