Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Executive Chairperson, Biocon- Biocon Limited
- Mazumdar Shaw Medical Center
- Mazumdar Shaw Centre for Translational Research
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's Journey so far ...
- After gaining qualification as a brewmaster from Australia, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw returned to India to follow in her father’s footsteps who was a brewmaster at United Breweries. But she failed to find a suitable job due to the lack of acceptance of women in the field
- Instead, she headed to Europe to look for opportunities. It was during this time that she met Leslie Auchincloss -- the founder of the Irish biotechnology firm Biocon Biochemicals
- Auchincloss wanted to expand to India and noticing her passion decided to make her a partner. In 1978, Biocon India was formed and she was in charge
- Initially operating from her garage, the company started with producing industrial enzymes
- Business was growing but Mazumdar-Shaw had to face some backlash as people were still not used to conducting business with or taking orders from a woman
- Despite hardships, her drive for innovation was turning profits for the company and the company soon ventured into the US and European market
- After a round of sell-offs and buybacks, Mazumdar-Shaw eventually wound up with around 40% shares of the company and became the richest woman in India after Biocon’s IPO in 2004
- Today, Biocon is the largest producer of insulin in India, and the first company in the country to gain the approval of USFDA for certain cancer-related and other drugs. It also remains a leading manufacturer of biosimilars, immunosuppressants and other speciality molecules with presence in over 120 countries
- As an initiative to increase the availability of affordable cancer care facilities in the country, she has established the 1,400-bed MazumdarShaw Medical Center in Bangalore
- The Indian government has honoured her with the Padma Shri -- the 4th highest civilian award -- in 1989 and the Padma Bhushan -- the 3rd highest civilian award -- in 2005
Before you go ...
- Apart from being widely recognised as one of the most influential business leaders in the field of biotechnology, she is also India’s first self-made woman billionaire
- Mazumdar-Shaw is the second Indian after Azim Premji to become a part of the Giving Pledge initiative
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw News
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw shares drone cleaning video, asks startups: 'Where's your innovation?'Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Biocon founder, sparked debate by questioning startup innovation. She shared a video of a drone cleaning windows in Bengaluru. Social media users responded with varied opinions. Some raised concerns about job losses due to automation. Others suggested more advanced drone applications for urban management. The discussion highlights differing views on technology's role and startup direction in India.
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's Immuneel Therapeutics raises Rs 100 crore from Singularity AMC, Rainmatter, othersThe Bengaluru-based company makes CAR-T therapy, a form of cancer treatment where a patient’s own immune cells are taken out, trained in a lab to fight cancer, and then put back into the body. The treatment has been seen as a major breakthrough globally, but has remained out of reach for most patients because it is highly expensive and difficult to manufacture.
- “Not Australia, but India rejected me for being a woman”: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw clarifies how gender bias led her to build Biocon in viral postBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw intervened and clarified after a viral post claimed that Australia denied her a master brewer role due to her gender. She clarified that India rejected her, prompting her to establish Biocon in 1978. Despite facing significant gender-based discrimination and hiring challenges, Shaw built Biocon into a global biopharmaceutical giant.
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw names niece Claire as successor, targets semaglutide push from FY28; debt cut to $1.1 billionBiocon's Executive Chairperson, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, outlined a five-year leadership transition with her niece, Claire Mazumdar, as successor. The company anticipates a strong FY27 launch calendar, particularly in the second half, with a focus on its "diabesity franchise." Significant debt reduction has been achieved, with further operational cash flow prioritized for additional deleveraging.
- Biocon reports 63% YoY fall in Q4 profit, final dividend of Rs. 0.50 recommendedBiocon's fourth-quarter net profit saw a significant drop of 63 percent year-on-year. This decline was attributed to exceptional charges impacting the company's financials. However, core businesses demonstrated growth. The company successfully integrated its biosimilars and generics operations. This strategic move aims to enhance scale and market reach. Biocon is now focused on improving profitability and creating long-term value for shareholders.
- The alchemist of Bengaluru: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw began from a garageKiran Mazumdar-Shaw has named her niece Claire Mazumdar as successor, setting up a gradual leadership transition at Biocon. A pioneer who built the company from a garage into a global biotech leader, Kiran is ensuring continuity by handing over to a science-driven leader while remaining at the helm during the transition.
- Biocon shares rise 1% after billionaire Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw names niece as successorBiocon's chairperson, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, has named her niece, Claire Mazumdar, as her successor, sparking a more than 1% jump in the company's shares. Shaw, who founded Biocon over 40 years ago, expressed confidence in Claire's ability to lead the company's future growth, driven by advanced biotech and AI.
- Claire Mazumdar: A silent force behind a $1.6 billion firm may write Biocon's future scriptsBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has named her niece, Claire Mazumdar, as her successor. Claire Mazumdar, a successful CEO of Bicara Therapeutics, brings scientific expertise and deal-making skills. She is poised to lead Biocon into its next growth phase. The company is focusing on biosimilars and advanced biologics.
- Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw chooses niece Claire Mazumdar as successor: ReportBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has announced her successor. Niece Claire Mazumdar will lead the company. Claire Mazumdar is the founder and CEO of Bicara Therapeutics. She holds advanced degrees and has prior industry experience. Biocon is also undergoing structural changes. The company focuses on biosimilars and integrating artificial intelligence. Other leadership transitions are also in progress across group companies.
- AI on 'Open Networks' can allow innovation at scale: Nandan NilekaniAt the India AI Summit 2026, Nandan Nilekani and Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw emphasized that AI can deliver population-scale impact only when built on open, interoperable Digital Public Infrastructure like the Unified Payments Interface. Nilekani highlighted AI agents that remove complexity and enable inclusive access, while Mazumdar-Shaw outlined a health “stack” using secure data and AI-driven risk profiling to advance preventive, community-based care and long-term medical innovation.
- Bengaluru: CEOs warn ‘it’s now or never’ for India’s tech capital as potholes, pollution, and endless jams are choking the 'garden city'Bengaluru, India's tech hub, faces severe traffic congestion and infrastructure woes, impacting productivity and work-life balance. The city's rapid growth has strained resources, leading to issues like water shortages and pollution. Authorities are implementing new governance structures and addressing infrastructure deficits to manage the crisis.
- Biocon chief bats for dual-agency model to fast-track drug approvalsBiocon's Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw suggests a new drug approval system. The Indian Council of Medical Research would handle scientific reviews for new drugs and devices. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation would then grant final regulatory approval. This aims to speed up innovation and research in India's biotechnology sector.
- Biocon considers merging Biocon Biologics in $4.5 billion deal; IPO and share swap options under reviewBiocon is exploring merging its biosimilars arm, Biocon Biologics, with itself, potentially valuing the unit at $4.5 billion. The company is in advanced talks with minority investors for a share swap, considering various value creation options including an IPO or merger. This move aims to address acquisition-related debt and unlock shareholder value.
- A 6-year-old’s wish became a billionaire’s life mission. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw shares the touching childhood note from her nephewBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw found inspiration in a childhood drawing from her nephew Eric. The artwork depicted a pot of gold coins and a message about generosity. This simple note continues to fuel her commitment to making healthcare accessible and affordable. The internet reacted with widespread admiration for Eric's thoughtfulness and the profound message shared by the young boy.
- Biocon Q2 Results: Profit soars 428% YoY to Rs 85 crore on strong biosimilar and generics growthBiocon Group reported a strong Q2 FY26 with a 20% year-on-year increase in operating revenue to Rs 4,296 crore, driven by biosimilars and generics. Net profit surged 428% to Rs 85 crore, boosted by debt settlement and strategic partnerships for affordable insulin access in the US. The company also inaugurated its first US OSD manufacturing facility and commenced Semaglutide filings.
- India’s most generous women gave over ₹600 cr in 2025; Rohini Nilekani tops the list with ₹204 crRohini Nilekani has been named India's most generous woman philanthropist, contributing ₹204 crore in the past year. Her focus on social innovation spans education, climate action, governance, and gender equity. Other prominent women philanthropists like Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Bina Shah also made significant contributions, supporting various social causes.
- 'I am amused': Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw offered to repair Bengaluru roads? Biocon chief responds to P ChidambaramBiocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has denied media reports claiming she offered to repair Bengaluru's roads. She expressed amusement, stating the news was fabricated and stemmed from a journalist's question to the Deputy Chief Minister. Former Union Minister P Chidambaram had earlier welcomed the supposed offer, suggesting a public works accountability model.
- Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw questions source of reports claiming that she had offered to repair roads in BengaluruKiran Mazumdar-Shaw, the entrepreneurial force behind Biocon, has playfully dismissed claims that she proposed funding for Bengaluru's road repairs, chuckling at the news reports that sparked the rumor. This comes after P. Chidambaram highlighted her supposed offer while presenting a potential framework for executing public works.
- Lull after storm: Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw meets Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah & Dy CM, exchange Diwali greetingsBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw met with Karnataka's Chief Minister and Deputy CM to exchange Diwali greetings, following a public dispute over Bengaluru's infrastructure. The discussion focused on the city's growth and future development, with the Deputy CM expressing openness to Shaw's offer to fund road improvements.
- Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw meets Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar amidst feudBiocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw met Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to discuss Bengaluru's growth and innovation. This meeting follows a public disagreement over the city's infrastructure, with Shaw previously highlighting poor road conditions and garbage management. Shivakumar had earlier suggested industrialists could develop roads themselves if dissatisfied.
- They are forgetting their humble beginnings: DK Shivakumar hits back at Shaw-Mazumdar over Bengaluru infraKarnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar clashed with corporate leaders Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and TV Mohandas Pai over Bengaluru's infrastructure. While Shivakumar defended ongoing projects, the business leaders criticized the city's lagging development and governance. Mazumdar-Shaw later acknowledged a positive development on a flyover project.
- I live in Karnataka, not Maharashtra, Biocon's Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw hits back at Congress leaderBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw defended her criticism of Bengaluru's infrastructure, stating her focus is on Karnataka where she resides. She responded to Congress leaders who questioned her silence on issues in Maharashtra and at the Centre, emphasizing her vested interest in her state's development. Shaw continues to advocate for improved roads and waste management in Bengaluru.
- Biocon founder Shaw harming Bengaluru’s interests with her social media posts, says Karnataka Dy CM ShivakumarKarnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar criticized Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's social media posts on Bengaluru's infrastructure, stating they harmed the city's interests. Shaw defended her comments, asserting her right to speak as a Karnataka resident. Meanwhile, a BJP MP urged the government to heed Shaw's suggestions for improving Bengaluru's global competitiveness.
- Bengaluru doesn’t deserve constant criticism, Dy CM reacts after Kiran-Shaw’s post goes viralBengaluru's Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has responded to criticism about the city's roads and garbage. He stated that the government is actively working on repairs, with significant funds allocated. Major infrastructure projects are also underway to improve the city's global competitiveness. Shivakumar urged collective effort to build Bengaluru up, emphasizing its importance to India's image.
- Bengaluru poor roads under fire once again: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw asks why roads are so bad; ministers say 'work in progress'Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has voiced concerns about Bengaluru's poor roads and garbage problem. An overseas visitor questioned the city's infrastructure, comparing it unfavorably to China. Government ministers acknowledge ongoing work but suggest the visitor may not have seen the complete picture. Industry leaders and citizens echo these concerns, highlighting the negative impact on Bengaluru's image and investment potential.
- Bengaluru's traffic is a global challenge, says Shivakumar, cites examples of London and DelhiBengaluru's Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar acknowledges traffic and garbage challenges, comparing them to global cities. He highlights the role of media in bringing attention to Bengaluru's issues. Shivakumar discusses the Greater Bengaluru Authority's aim for better governance and outlines plans for infrastructure development, including new wards and transport corridors. He stresses citizen participation in building a better Bengaluru.
- HCL's Roshni Nadar Malhotra becomes India’s richest woman with Rs 2.84 lakh crore wealth: Hurun reportRoshni Nadar Malhotra, Chairperson of HCL Technologies, emerged as India’s richest woman, debuting at third on the M3M Hurun India Rich List 2025 with Rs 2.84 lakh crore. This marks a historic first for a woman in the top three, underscoring the growing influence of tech-driven wealth and women's leadership in Indian industry.
- Pressure mounts on Dy CM Shivakumar to fix Bengaluru after it’s ranked 6th best global tech cityFollowing Bengaluru's ranking as a top global tech hub, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar faces pressure to improve infrastructure. Corporate leaders urge him to transform the city through action, not just rhetoric, as five new municipal corporations prepare to oversee Bengaluru's civic administration. The goal is balanced development and better services across the expanded 712 square kilometers.
- Bengaluru has best weather, worst roads: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw slams India's Silicon Valley's infra, suggests way outKiran Mazumdar-Shaw has once again highlighted Bengaluru's infrastructure shortcomings, particularly regarding garbage disposal, urging city authorities to take action. Deputy CM Shivakumar acknowledged the issues and affirmed the government's commitment to addressing them through the Greater Bengaluru Authority. He emphasized the need for collective effort to improve the city's infrastructure and realize its potential.
- Bengaluru: BMRCL drops transportation hub project, settles for 9 acresA high-level committee, led by Shalini Rajneesh, has granted nine acres near Hebbal to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation. This decision overlooks requests from prominent citizens and MPs for a larger 45-acre plot. BMRCL initially sought 45 acres for a multi-modal transport hub. Real estate groups reportedly influenced the government to reduce the land allocation.
- BJP asks Karnataka CM to apologise for linking COVID vaccines with heart attacks as expert panel rejects claimKarnataka BJP demands an apology from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for linking cardiac arrests in Hassan to COVID-19 vaccination. An expert panel found no evidence supporting the claim, attributing the rise in cardiac deaths to multifactorial risks. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and BJP spokesperson Dr CN Ashwath Narayan criticized Siddaramaiah's remarks as baseless and aimed at discrediting Indian-made vaccines.
- Heart-attack deaths: Biocon founder disapproves of CM Siddaramaiah doubting Covid vaccineBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw refuted Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's suggestion that Covid-19 vaccines might be linked to recent heart attack deaths in Karnataka. She emphasized the rigorous approval process and global safety standards followed for Indian-developed vaccines. Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted that attributing heart attacks to vaccines after four years is scientifically implausible, citing other potential causes.
- COVID-19 vaccines well-documented, rigorously tested as per regulatory processes: IPAThe Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) refuted claims linking COVID-19 vaccines to heart attack deaths, emphasizing their rigorous testing and crucial role in combating the pandemic. IPA Secretary General Sudarshan Jain highlighted the Indian pharmaceutical industry's knowledge-driven nature and its significant contribution to global vaccine production, accounting for 60% of the world's supply.
- Karnataka CM's remarks on covid vaccines 'factually incorrect,' says Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-ShawKiran Mazumdar-Shaw refuted Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah's claim. Siddaramaiah linked covid-19 vaccines to heart attack deaths in Hassan. Shaw stated the vaccines followed rigorous safety protocols. She said the vaccines saved lives. The Union Health Ministry dismissed Siddaramaiah's statement. Studies show no link between vaccines and sudden deaths. The ministry cited various factors for cardiac deaths.
- Namma Metro drops Hebbal depot plans caving in to pressure as influential groups have their wayBangalore Metro Rail Corporation has revised its Hebbal transport hub plan. It has reduced the land needed from 45 acres to nine. This decision follows pressure from real estate groups. The original plan included a depot and parking. Influential citizens urged the government to retain the 45-acre plot. BBMP also wants land for a tunnel road project.
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw applauds Bengaluru professor who turned leaf into a straw: Know how it’s now a global hitProf Saji Varghese, an English professor at Christ University in Bengaluru, has developed eco-friendly straws made from coconut leaves. What started as a chance discovery in 2017 has now turned into a global success, with his straws, marketed under the brand SunBird, being exported to 25 countries. The innovation not only tackles plastic pollution but also provides livelihoods to rural women across South India.
- Heavy downpour leaves Bengaluru's tech parks in knee-deep water, citizens fumeBengaluru faced severe criticism after heavy downpours caused widespread flooding, impacting tech parks and residential areas. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and Mohandas Pai voiced their concerns, urging government action. Deputy CM Shivakumar pledged long-term solutions to the city's infrastructure problems, while the BBMP initiated drainage measures in affected zones as many companies allowed employees to work from home.
- Biocon betting big on new product launches for growthBiocon aims to grow through new product launches in generics and biosimilars, bolstered by the Viatris acquisition. This strategy integrates development, production, distribution, and market deployment. Biocon Biologics has acquired Viatris' global biosimilars business, boosting revenue. The company is building a strong brand presence globally, especially in the US.
- Biocon buys back an investor stake in biologics unit, posts Rs 25 crore net profit in Q3FY25Biocon's board has approved the acquisition of 1.5% equity in Biocon Biologics for Rs 550 crore, increasing its stake to 90.2%. The deal is expected to complete by February 1, 2025. Despite a significant drop in net profit, revenue and EBITDA have grown. Increased biosimilar market share and strategic approvals are expected to drive future growth.
- Biocon urges government to exempt cancer, rare-disease drugs from tax in budgetIndia should eliminate tax on drugs for cancer treatment and chronic diseases, urged Biocon's chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, ahead of the budget. She highlighted the heavy financial burden on patients and called for making lifesaving therapies affordable by removing taxes and cutting import duties on medical equipment.
- 22-km highway stretch to Bengaluru airport is also South India’s highest toll grosserBengaluru's Sadahalli airport toll plaza topped South India's toll revenue charts in 2023-24, collecting Rs 308 crore. Nationally, it ranked among the top five, exceeding all other southern toll roads. Despite a dip during the Covid-19 pandemic, collections have surged, prompting calls for toll removal.
- Toll for airport highway: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw joins critics, says Bengaluru must be at par with other citiesProminent figures like Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and TV Mohandas Pai criticize Bengaluru's Devanahalli airport toll, citing unfair charges and comparing it to other Indian cities. The toll plaza's substantial revenue collection sparks public debate, with demands for its removal and alternative route improvements.
- Biocon Biologics looks to trim $300 million debt in 1 yearBiocon Biologics plans to reduce its acquisition debt by $300 million over the next year. The company recently refinanced $1.1 billion in debt, providing more financial flexibility. Biocon aims to capitalize on the growing insulin market, with plans to double its insulin production capacity in Malaysia.
- TPG Nambiar, the man behind BPL and an early 'Make in India' advocateT.P. Gopalan Nambiar, founder of BPL Group, passed away at 94, leaving a profound legacy in India's electronics industry. Established in 1963, BPL became a household name under his leadership, expanding from defense equipment to consumer electronics. Despite facing fierce competition and internal challenges, Nambiar’s vision shaped manufacturing standards in India.
- Why Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is frustrated with Bengaluru roads; Here’s how she wants authorities to fix the pothole problemBiocon founder Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has urged the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to improve Bengaluru’s road conditions by adopting maintenance practices similar to those used by the Electronics City Industrial Township Authority (ELCITA). Citing ELCITA’s scientific approach to road upkeep, Mazumdar-Shaw pointed to methods like proactive maintenance, AI monitoring, and efficient drainage, which have kept Electronics City pothole-free.
- Give contract to fix Bengaluru roads to Elcita, not BBMP contractors, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw tells Karnataka GovtKiran Mazumdar-Shaw, founder of Biocon, urged the Karnataka government to transfer the contract for Bengaluru's road maintenance to Electronic City Township Authority (Elcita). She highlighted the effective road management by Elcita, contrasting it with the current situation managed by BBMP. Shaw suggested that Elcita's advanced methods could greatly improve road conditions in high traffic areas.
- Meet Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw's niece Claire: An MIT grad making Indian innovation shine with $1 billion market debutClaire Mazumdar, CEO of Bicara Therapeutics and niece of Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, led her company to a successful Nasdaq debut, reaching a market valuation of over $1 billion. Claire's impressive academic background and contributions to oncology have been pivotal in her career. Biocon entities hold an 11% stake in Bicara post-IPO.
- Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to kick off work on Innovation City project on September 26The Chief Minister will launch the first phase of a groundbreaking project on 2000 acres, with the initial phase covering 500 acres. The Rs 40,000 crore project aims to create 100,000 jobs. An advisory committee of eminent citizens will oversee progress. The city will feature world-class universities, hospitals, and industries, boosting Bengaluru's global prominence.
- Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw calls for innovation-driven value creation in India's biotech sectorBiocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw urges increased investment in research and development to drive innovation and intellectual property culture. Speaking at Global Bio-India 2024, she highlights India's potential as a global bio-innovation hub, emphasizing its scientific talent and technological capabilities. She also underscores the importance of biotechnology in healthcare and agriculture.
- Karnataka Reservation: Mohandas Pai calls it discriminatory & regressive, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw says 'we need skilled talent'Industry leaders in Karnataka criticize proposed reservation policies as discriminatory, fearing negative impacts on the tech sector. The State Employment of Local Candidates in Industries Bill, approved by the Karnataka cabinet, aims to prioritize local hiring but faces backlash from figures like Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw and TV Mohandas Pai. They argue for exemptions for skilled roles and condemn what they call a regressive government intervention in private sector hiring.
- Why Bengaluru is Nikhil Kamath's favourite city? Zerodha co-founder says Mumbai has 'good-looking people but...'Billionaire entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath recently praised Bengaluru, India's startup capital, in a YouTube podcast. Despite acknowledging challenges like traffic, he highlighted Bengaluru's standout feature as its people, emphasizing their warmth and love for the city. Kamath also praised Bengaluru's talent pool, calling it unmatched globally for startups due to its access to skilled individuals at a reasonable cost.
- Zerodha's Nikhil Kamath on parenthood: 'Don't want to ruin 20 years of my life babysitting'Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath recently shared his unconventional take on parenthood and legacy on his podcast, WTF. Kamath challenges traditional views, questioning the necessity of having children to carry on a legacy. He emphasizes living well and social responsibility over seeking posthumous recognition. Kamath's commitment to philanthropy, exemplified by joining The Giving Pledge, reflects his values, inspiring others to reconsider societal norms.
- FM, Murthy and Nilekani among first to vote as Bengaluru goes to polls in soaring temperatureThe three LS constituencies of the city, Bengaluru North (54.42%), Bengaluru Central (52.81%) and Bengaluru South (53.15%) recorded a turnout that was lower than the state-average (69.23%) for the 14 constituencies that went to polls in Karnataka on Friday. Long weekend, soaring temperatures and voter apathy may have caused the lower turnout in Bengaluru.
- A strong push for India's journey towards genuine universal healthcare, manufacturing, R&D: Kiran Mazumdar-ShawIn her last budget speech before general elections, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has presented an all-encompassing, growth-focused financial roadmap that is aligned with India's aspiration of achieving 'developed economy' status by 2047. The FM has adeptly struck a balance between fostering economic growth and maintaining fiscal prudence in this budget. Initiatives outlined in this budget will contribute positively to fostering a business-friendly environment and spur India's transition to an advanced manufacturing and knowledge-led economy.
- Budget outlines comprehensive roadmap for sustained economic growth: Kiran Mazumdar-ShawKiran Mazumdar-Shaw commends Nirmala Sitharaman's comprehensive roadmap for India's sustained economic growth towards developed economy status by 2047. The budget prioritizes research, innovation, bio manufacturing, infrastructure development, and technology-driven digital transformation. No tax change is a positive aspect.
- Budget will help India deliver aspirational yet people-centric, inclusive development: IndustryWith no major tax and duty changes announced, Mahindra said, "Businesses place a high value on stability and predictability and that was evident in this Budget. The really good news was the higher Tax to GDP ratio which has long been hoped for and which cements a strong foundation for fiscal flexibility and aggressive expenditure when it is needed."
- Powered by innovative drugs, pharma industry can be worth $200 billion by 2030, says Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-ShawResearch-based incentives can boost the domestic pharmaceutical sector, making it worth USD 200 billion by 2030, according to Biocon Executive Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw. She believes the industry has the potential to grow even further beyond the estimated USD 165 billion by 2030, but this growth must be driven by drug innovation rather than just generics and biosimilars. Mazumdar-Shaw emphasized the need for research incentives to drive this growth and called for stronger government support through research-linked incentive schemes. She also suggested decoupling private sector investment and funding academic research institutes out of the National Research Foundation.
- Biocon weighs sale of $1.5 billion generic API businessThe Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw helmed company made a huge bet on biosimilars by acquiring a portfolio of drugs from global drug major Viatris for $3.34 billion in November last year. That deal was funded by debt taken both by Biocon Ltd and its biosimilars arm Biocon Biologics. Biocon Biologics took loans of $1.2 billion to fund the acquisition.
- Technology has important role to play in future of biotech: Biocon chiefBiocon executive chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has emphasized the importance of technology in the future of biotechnology and product development. She believes that it would be great to see an idea go from laboratory to market in less than a year. Mazumdar-Shaw believes that technology can significantly accelerate the process of bringing new medications to market.
- On track to integrate major part of Viatris'' acquired biosimilars biz this fiscal: Kiran Mazumdar-ShawBiocon Biologics is set to integrate a major portion of the biosimilars business acquired from Viatris in the current fiscal year, according to Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon. The integration of the biosimilars business has already been completed in over 70 countries in emerging markets, and the company is now focusing on integrating it in the remaining markets, including North America and Europe.
- Biocon Biologics may raise additional equity of $300 million in FY24 to pare debtBiocon Biologics plans to raise a further $300m by the end of FY24 in order to reduce its net debt, which peaked at $1.9bn in December 2022. The additional funds will give the Indian pharmaceutical firm the freedom to develop licence assets and engage in mergers and acquisitions. The company has already raised around $650m via various means, including the sale of a Syngene stake and structured investment deals with Kotak and Edelweiss, which have reduced Biocon's debt to under $1bn.
- From IMF chief to US Treasury Secretary, top leaders welcome Ajay Banga's nomination for World BankIn a tweet, Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director, IMF said, "Happy to hear that Ajay Banga, who I have known for many yrs, has been nominated as a candidate to lead World Bank. His exec leadership skills & drive for innovation are well known. But even more so I admire his commitment to sustainable devt, to do good & help those most in need".
- Inclusive, growth-oriented budget, says industry veteran Kiran Mazumdar-ShawInformation technology industry veteran T V Mohandas Pai called the budget "transformative" and the one that would ensure GDP growth stays on the fast lane. He however, said startups have been ignored "big time". "A transformative budget that will ensure India's GDP growth will stay on the fast lane. Start ups have been ignored big time," Pai said in a tweet.
- All diseases are cellular diseases: Dr Siddhartha MukherjeeRenowned oncologist, cancer researcher and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Dr Siddhartha Mukherjee’s latest book The Song of The Cell: An Exploration of Medicine and the New Human was unveiled by Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson, Biocon and Biocon Biologics Ltd, at an event at the Museum of Art & Photography (MAP), here on Wednesday.
- Bengaluru doesn't need knee jerk reactions. Penalise builders, authorities for holistic solution: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw"The question that begs to be answered is whether there will be a parallel investigation into how the BBMP and BDA gave permissions in the first place," the Executive Chairperson of Bengaluru-headquartered biopharmaceuticals company Biocon said. She said the anti-encroachment drive launched by the BMMP this week to clear illegal structures was a long overdue exercise.