North’s science & tech cluster launches ‘Syn-Pharma’ to boost pharma innovations in region

Chandigarh: The Northern Region Science & Technology Cluster, PI-RAHI, launched its flagship initiative ‘Syn-Pharma' at Panjab University Monday to boost pharmaceutical and MedTech innovation in northern India. The platform aims to foster collaborative research, regulatory support, and stronger industry-academia partnerships.The event was inaugurated by Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, Drugs Controller General of India, who said, "Innovation must be guided by quality, not just profit. Value must be in the driver's seat. The next six years are crucial for India to show the world it can deliver affordable, high-quality medicines." Highlighting the growing role of the Chandigarh region in drug manufacturing, he called for deeper collaborations.Renu Vig, PU vice-chancellor and chairperson of PI-RAHI, underlined the role of academic institutions in meeting industrial demands. "Academia has always been keen to bridge the gap with industry. I am heartened by the participation of pharmaceutical companies in Syn-Pharma," she said. Vig stressed the need for innovative research that addresses unsolved challenges in healthcare.Two major initiatives were unveiled under Syn-Pharma. A Call for Proposals will fund up to Rs 10 lakh for joint research projects between institutions and pharma or MedTech firms. A new industry-oriented PhD programme led by NIPER Mohali was also announced to encourage industrial product development. Three startups mentored by PI-RAHI under PSCST's SHE 3.0 initiative were recognised on the occasion. DACH Biotech Pvt Ltd received Rs 3 lakh for work in cancer diagnostics, Nanokem Innovations got Rs 1.5 lakh for nano-based drug delivery, and Herbspark Nutraceuticals received Rs 2 lakh for herbal therapeutics.The initiative is supported by the office of the principal scientific adviser, CDSCO, and RUSA, with key partners including UIPS, PU, NIPER Mohali, and PSCST.