Powering Global Pharma Innovation: The Rise of Indian CROs

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India supplies more than 20% of the world’s generic medicines, reaching over 200 countries. It provides 40% of generic drugs used in the U.S. and 80% of antiretrovirals globally, reinforcing its pivotal role in affordable global healthcare. While the generic manufacturing engine remains strong, India’s transition to innovation-led drug discovery has been gradual.

The introduction of product patents in 2005 prompted Indian pharmaceutical giants like Dr. Reddy’s and Zydus to invest in R&D. Despite initial progress, sustained innovation was hindered by long timelines, risk aversion, and limited capital. While a few players continue to invest in New Chemical Entities (NCEs), most have shifted focus—creating space for CROs to lead.

With the high risk and capital intensity of NCE development, Indian Contract Research Organizations (CROs) have stepped in as trusted innovation partners. Offering deep scientific expertise and cost-efficient operations, CROs now play a crucial role in supporting global pharma and biotech clients across the R&D spectrum—from early discovery to clinical development.

Most Indian Contract Research Organizations (CROs) began operations in the early 1990s, primarily focusing on bioequivalence studies for generics and clinical trials. Over time, they expanded into preclinical services and have now evolved to offer comprehensive, end-to-end solutions across the entire drug discovery, development, and manufacturing continuum. Today, many CROs also provide specialized services supporting various stages of emerging therapeutic modalities.

CROs are increasingly recognized as creative collaborators. With platforms like Syn.AI™ and SARchitect™, organizations like Syngene are proving that CROs can both execute and innovate—helping biotech and pharma clients shorten timelines and increase success rates.

Among India’s CROs, Syngene International exemplifies how a company can bridge scientific curiosity with real-world impact. With over 400+ patents enabled for global clients and a portfolio that spans small and large molecules, Syngene offers end-to-end R&D services from target discovery to commercial manufacturing.

Beyond Pharma
Syngene’s scientific platforms continue to demonstrate versatility beyond healthcare, extending into sustainable fuels and cosmetic innovations. Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, Syngene International Limited has been recognized by TIME magazine and Statista as one of the World’s Most Sustainable Companies for 2025—ranked #1 among Indian pharma and biotech firms and among the top 20 globally in life sciences.

• Develop Proprietary Pipelines: CROs can move up the value chain by investing in internal innovation platforms.
• Strengthen Academia–Industry Ties: Shared IP and joint innovation labs can fuel faster breakthroughs.
• Embrace Digital Transformation: AI, automation, and predictive analytics are essential to remain competitive.
• Foster Innovation Culture: Intrapreneurship, innovation hubs, and dedicated R&D budgets empower teams.
• Pursue Global Collaborations: Risk-sharing partnerships and co-development deals build credibility and impact.

​​​​​​​Indian CROs are at the center of global pharmaceutical innovation—and Syngene stands at the forefront. By combining scientific depth, digital sophistication, and operational scale, Syngene is redefining what it means to be an innovation partner in the life sciences ecosystem.