Prominent leaders from India's pharmaceutical sector gathered in Lucknow on Tuesday for a significant industry conclave, where they collectively praised the remarkable transformation of Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The executives highlighted the state's evolving profile, robust governance framework, and exceptionally investor-friendly environment as key factors driving growth.
Fundamental Reforms Setting National Direction
Speaking at the Pharma Conclave, industry heads unanimously acknowledged that Uttar Pradesh has undertaken fundamental and structural reforms that are proving to be direction-setting not only for the state but for the entire country. They emphasized how these comprehensive changes have created a blueprint for development that other states could emulate.
Clear Roadmap for Transformation
Ayodhya Rami Reddy, founder of Ramky Group, described the state's progress as an "exceptional commitment" to the nation, noting that UP has undergone unprecedented transformation under CM Yogi Adityanath's leadership. "The roadmap for what UP is today and what it aims to become has been clearly laid out. I have never witnessed such a positive investment climate," he stated emphatically.
From Exodus to Return: A Security Revolution
Mankind Pharma chairman Ramesh Juneja provided a powerful testimony about the dramatic shift in Uttar Pradesh's business environment. He recalled the difficult circumstances of the past, revealing that his company had moved operations out of UP following a kidnapping incident in 2001. "Once we had to leave, now it's time to return," Juneja declared, explaining that the situation has changed dramatically in recent years, with people now feeling safe even late at night. "This renewed sense of security encouraged investors to return," he added.
Red Carpet Welcome for Investors
Torrent Group vice-chairman Jinil Mehta highlighted the remarkable improvement in ease of doing business and law and order over the past nine years. Sharing his company's extensive experience across 20 districts in Uttar Pradesh, he noted that Torrent never faced issues related to bureaucratic red tape or security concerns. "Investors today receive red carpet, not red tape," Mehta proclaimed, underscoring the welcoming environment for business expansion.
Global Recognition and Forward-Looking Policies
Dr Reddy's Laboratories chairman Satish Reddy pointed to India's strengthened global standing in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic when Indian companies helped save millions of lives worldwide. He emphasized that UP's pharmaceutical policies are both effective and forward-looking, creating a conducive environment for sustainable growth. "The state offers promising opportunities for expansion and innovation," Reddy affirmed.
Infrastructure and Talent: UP's Competitive Advantages
Padma Bhushan awardee and Zydus Lifesciences chairman Pankaj Ramanbhai Patel identified several critical factors that make Uttar Pradesh attractive for pharmaceutical investment:
- Abundant land availability for industrial expansion
- Reliable power supply and water resources
- Growing pool of skilled manpower and technical talent
"With improving infrastructure and a growing talent pool, UP is steadily emerging as a preferred hub for the pharmaceutical sector," Patel observed.
Safety as Foundation for Investment
Padma Shri awardee and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries chairman Dilip Shanghvi made a significant declaration about Uttar Pradesh's security environment. "UP has emerged as one of the safest states in the country due to substantial improvement in law and order," he stated. Shanghvi emphasized that this improved security framework has played a crucial role in attracting large pharmaceutical investments to the state, creating a stable foundation for long-term business operations.
The collective testimony from these pharmaceutical leaders paints a compelling picture of Uttar Pradesh's transformation from a challenging business environment to a thriving investment destination. Their experiences highlight how governance reforms, security improvements, and proactive policies have combined to create what multiple executives described as an unprecedented positive climate for pharmaceutical industry growth and expansion.
