Novartis expands India’s role in global drug development and R&D

Summary

• R&D expansion: Novartis is increasing India’s role in global drug research, including early-stage clinical development and scientific operations.
• Strategic restructuring: The company is sharpening its India strategy around innovative medicines following the sale of its stake in its listed Indian subsidiary.
• Clinical research focus: India is emerging as a larger hub for advanced clinical research, data science and pharmaceutical innovation within Novartis’ global network.

MUMBAI, May 11, 2026 — Novartis is expanding India’s role in its global pharmaceutical research and development operations as the company strengthens its focus on innovative medicines and advanced clinical research.

In a recent interview, Amitabh Dube, Country President and Managing Director of Novartis India, said the country is becoming increasingly important in the company’s global drug development pipeline, particularly in research, digital capabilities and clinical operations.

Shift toward innovation-led operations

The expansion follows a broader restructuring of Novartis’ India business after the company agreed to sell its stake in its listed Indian subsidiary to a consortium led by ChrysCapital.

Following the transaction, Novartis has continued to focus on its innovative medicines business in India, including therapies related to oncology, cardiovascular disease and immunology.

Industry analysts say multinational pharmaceutical companies are increasingly using India not only for large-scale manufacturing and late-stage trials, but also for higher-value research and development activities.

Hyderabad and Ahmedabad research expansion

Novartis continues to expand capabilities at its Hyderabad operations, which support global functions including data science, analytics, digital research and regulatory work.

The company is also strengthening clinical research activities in India as part of broader efforts to integrate Indian operations into global drug development programs.

Executives highlighted India’s growing scientific talent pool, digital infrastructure and clinical research ecosystem as key factors supporting the expansion.

Focus on advanced therapies

Novartis has been increasing investments globally in specialized therapies including oncology, radioligand therapies and precision medicine platforms.

Analysts say India’s expanding biotechnology ecosystem and skilled research workforce are helping attract more sophisticated pharmaceutical research projects.

The company also expects demand for innovative medicines in India to rise as healthcare infrastructure and access continue to improve.

Why this matters

• Higher-value pharma role: India is moving beyond manufacturing into advanced drug research and development activities.
• Clinical research growth: Expansion of early-stage trials could strengthen India’s position in global pharmaceutical innovation.
• Talent demand: The sector is creating growing opportunities for scientists, clinicians and biotech researchers.
• Healthcare investment: Multinational drugmakers continue to increase long-term investments in India’s life sciences ecosystem.

FAQs

Q1. What is Novartis focusing on in India?

The company is focusing on innovative medicines, clinical research and global R&D operations.

Q2. Why is India important for pharmaceutical research?

India offers a large scientific workforce, expanding healthcare infrastructure and growing clinical research capabilities.

Q3. Which therapy areas are important for Novartis?

The company focuses on areas including oncology, cardiovascular disease and immunology.

Q4. What role does Hyderabad play for Novartis?

The Hyderabad operations support global functions such as analytics, research, regulatory work and digital capabilities.