Novo Nordisk, Torrent expand insulin capacity in state by 35% Novo Nordisk, Torrent Pharma expand insulin manufacturing capacity by 35%

Indrad: Danish pharmaceutical major, Novo Nordisk, which specializes in manufacturing diabetes drugs is eyeing the Indian diabetes market and is stepping up its game here. With a view to expand its reach, Novo Nordisk announced plans for capacity expansion of the existing insulin manufacturing plant by 35%, owned by its manufacturing partner, Torrent Pharmaceuticals. Novo Nordisk inaugurated the new manufacturing facility at Indrad in Mehsana district, located some 40km from Ahmedabad.Peter Taksøe-Jensen, Danish ambassador to India, along with Frederik Kier, senior vice-president – region AAMEO, Novo Nordisk, inaugurated the facility. With this, the company aims to reach out to an additional two million diabetics across India, under its insulin therapy. Currently, Novo Nordisk currently gives access to diabetes medicines to some three million people in the country.“With the expansion of the facility at Indrad, we reiterate our commitment to ensuring the provision of affordable quality insulin for people with diabetes. At Novo Nordisk, we are committed to addressing the growing diabetes burden by working with like-minded stakeholders to change diabetes,” said Kier.Torrent Pharmaceuticals made a total investment of Rs 60 crore in the manufacturing facility so far, including the recent expansion. At present, the Indrad-based manufacturing facility suffices 70% of Novo Nordisk’s domestic requirement of insulin for the Indian market. The expansion of their facility at Torrent Pharmaceutical’s manufacturing plant will further increase this requirement.According to estimates by International Diabetes Federation, India is the diabetes capital of the world with some 72.9 million people suffering from diabetes. The number is expected to go up to 134.3 million by 2045. “Diabetes is a progressive disorder and the sharp rise in the occurrence in India is alarming. We will continue to ensure the provision of cost-effective yet high-quality medication. The enhanced production facility will be equipped to address the growing diabetes challenges,” said Melvin D’Souza, MD, Novo Nordisk India.According to him, Novo Nordisk currently enjoys a 60% market share in the Insulin market of India, which is estimated at Rs 2,200 crore, with an annual growth rate of 15-17%.