Ahmedabad, August 23, 2026: Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel has called for India to move beyond its established identity as the “Pharmacy of the World” and emerge as the “Laboratory of the World”, driven by research, innovation and emerging technologies.
She made the remarks while addressing the 3rd edition of the IIMA Healthcare Summit 2026 at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA). The summit was organised around the theme “Advancing AI in Healthcare”, bringing the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare into focus.
Anupriya Patel Calls for Research-Driven Healthcare Transformation
Addressing the gathering, Anupriya Patel emphasised the need for India to strengthen its capabilities in research, innovation and technology to build a more advanced healthcare ecosystem.
India has established a strong global presence in the pharmaceutical sector, earning recognition as the “Pharmacy of the World” because of its significant contribution to the production and supply of medicines.
The Minister’s call to become the “Laboratory of the World” points towards a broader ambition—positioning India not only as a major producer of healthcare products but also as a global centre for research, discovery, innovation and technology-led healthcare solutions.
AI Emerging as a Major Force in Healthcare
The theme of this year’s IIMA Healthcare Summit—“Advancing AI in Healthcare”—reflects the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence across the healthcare sector.
AI has the potential to influence several areas, including medical research, diagnostics, healthcare delivery, drug discovery, data analysis and personalised healthcare.
With access to large datasets, advanced computing capabilities and a growing technology ecosystem, India has an opportunity to develop and deploy AI solutions that can address both domestic healthcare needs and global challenges.
The adoption of AI, however, also requires responsible implementation, strong data governance and attention to privacy, safety and ethical considerations.
From Pharmaceutical Strength to Innovation Leadership
India’s pharmaceutical industry has played a major role in making medicines accessible in India and across international markets. The country is recognised globally for its pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities, generic medicines and vaccine production.
The next stage of growth could involve strengthening India’s position across the entire healthcare innovation chain—from scientific research and clinical development to advanced technologies and commercialisation.
Becoming a “Laboratory of the World” would therefore require greater investment in research and development, collaboration between academia and industry, and the development of a skilled workforce capable of working at the intersection of healthcare and technology.
Role of Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies are changing how healthcare systems operate. Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, advanced analytics and digital health platforms are creating new possibilities for improving efficiency and decision-making.
AI-driven technologies can potentially assist healthcare professionals by analysing complex information, identifying patterns and supporting clinical decision-making. In research, AI can also help accelerate processes such as identifying potential drug candidates and analysing scientific data.
For India, developing indigenous capabilities in these areas could help reduce dependence on imported technologies while creating opportunities for the country to become a global provider of healthcare innovation.
IIMA Healthcare Summit Focuses on AI
The IIMA Healthcare Summit 2026 provided a platform for discussions on the opportunities and challenges associated with AI in healthcare.
The focus on Artificial Intelligence reflects the rapid pace at which technology is becoming integrated into healthcare systems around the world.
The participation of policymakers, healthcare professionals, academics, industry representatives and technology experts can help encourage greater collaboration between different sectors.
Such collaboration will be essential if India is to translate technological potential into practical healthcare solutions that are affordable, scalable and accessible.
Need for Stronger Academia-Industry Collaboration
India’s ambition to become a global innovation hub will require closer cooperation between educational institutions, research organisations, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies and technology firms.
Institutions such as IIM Ahmedabad can contribute to this ecosystem by bringing together management expertise, policy discussions and innovation-focused research.
Stronger links between academia and industry can also help convert research into practical products and services, creating opportunities for entrepreneurship and investment in healthcare technology.
Building a Future-Ready Healthcare Ecosystem
The transition from being the “Pharmacy of the World” to becoming the “Laboratory of the World” represents a shift from manufacturing-led strength towards knowledge, research and innovation-led growth.
For India, this transformation could create opportunities across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, digital health and Artificial Intelligence.
A future-ready healthcare ecosystem will also need professionals who understand both healthcare and emerging technologies. Developing these skills through education, research and industry exposure will be critical.
India’s Global Healthcare Opportunity
India’s large population, expanding digital infrastructure, strong pharmaceutical sector and growing technology capabilities provide a significant foundation for healthcare innovation.
If these strengths are combined with sustained investment in scientific research and responsible AI adoption, India could strengthen its role in the global healthcare ecosystem.
The focus will ultimately need to extend beyond developing technology to ensuring that innovations translate into measurable improvements in healthcare outcomes.
Conclusion
Union Minister Anupriya Patel’s call for India to become the “Laboratory of the World” highlights the country’s potential to move from being primarily recognised for pharmaceutical production to becoming a major global force in healthcare research and innovation.
Speaking at the IIMA Healthcare Summit 2026, she placed research, innovation and emerging technologies at the centre of India’s healthcare ambitions.
As Artificial Intelligence continues to reshape healthcare, India’s ability to combine its pharmaceutical strengths with scientific research, technology and skilled talent could determine its position in the next phase of global healthcare innovation.
