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Karnal emerges as potential pharma hub, HPMA demands strategic support for MSMEs
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Peethaambaran Kunnathoor, Chennai
January 14 , 2026
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In a significant move to bolster Haryana’s pharmaceutical landscape, the Haryana Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (HPMA) hosted a high-level seminar titled ‘Opportunities and Development of Pharmaceutical Industry in Haryana’ at Hotel De Vivan.
The event brought together more than 125 leading drug manufacturers from across the state to address critical regulatory hurdles and advocate for the development of specialized infrastructure in the region.
The seminar served as a platform for industry veterans to voice urgent concerns regarding the transition to global manufacturing standards. The president of the HPMA opened the proceedings by characterizing the pharmaceutical sector as a vital pillar of the state’s economy. General secretary Vikas Pruthy followed with a progress report on the association’s recent achievements, while shifting the focus to the pressing technical and financial challenges currently facing small-scale manufacturers.
A primary focal point of the discussion was the implementation of the revised Schedule-M guidelines. These updated Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are designed to align Indian pharmaceutical quality with international World Health Organization (WHO) standards. However, the association argued that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) require a minimum two-year extension to comply. Stakeholders noted that without additional time and technical support, many smaller units might face closure due to the high costs of upgrading facilities and systems.
The association also presented a strong case for the expedited establishment of a dedicated Pharma Park in Karnal. This proposed project is expected to act as a catalyst for investment and employment, potentially creating thousands of jobs. Manufacturers emphasized that the park should include a Common Facility Centre (CFC) to provide affordable testing labs and technical guidance, ensuring that even the smallest units can maintain high-quality standards without prohibitive capital expenditure.
The local MLA Jagmohan Anand, the event's chief guest, praised the industry’s resilience and assured the manufacturers of the government's full cooperation. He committed to placing the industry’s demands before the state government and specifically mentioned that the plea for a Schedule-M extension would be communicated to the central government through union minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Anand’s assurance provided a sense of optimism for manufacturers seeking a smoother regulatory transition.
Regulatory authorities present at the seminar provided a dual perspective of enforcement and encouragement. State Drug Controller Lalit Kumar Goel briefed attendees on the intricacies of the new guidelines, stressing that while the government is willing to support the industry, there can be no compromise on drug safety and quality. Meanwhile, Dr. Ajay Sachan, deputy drug controller (CDSCO), highlighted the vast export potential awaiting those who successfully adopt these global standards.
The seminar concluded with a renewed commitment from the HPMA to advocate for ‘Hybrid Mode’ operations, allowing both online and offline processes, until digital portals like ONDLS are fully stabilized. By fostering this direct dialogue between regulators and manufacturers, the event marked a critical step toward transforming Karnal into a modern pharmaceutical supercluster that balances stringent quality with sustainable industrial growth.
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