India pivots to self-reliant biotech at Chennai science conclave

A major biotechnology conclave organised by The Hindu and VIT in Chennai underscored India's transition towards building indigenous research and manufacturing infrastructure in the life sciences sector. Suchitra Ella, co-founder and managing director of Bharat Biotech, delivered the inaugural address and emphasised the nation's shift away from reliance on Western-developed vaccines and pharmaceutical compounds. The event brought together scientists, industry leaders and researchers to explore new frontiers and collaborative opportunities in biotechnology innovation across South Asia. Discussions at the conclave focused on strengthening India's capacity to design, develop and manufacture cutting-edge biological products domestically, reducing dependence on imports and positioning the country as a knowledge-driven life sciences hub. The gathering reflected growing momentum in India's biotech sector, which has increasingly demonstrated capability in vaccine development, drug discovery and advanced manufacturing technologies.