Increasing Number Of Biologics Losing Patents Presents India With Great Opportunity

Shakthi M Nagappan, Director (Life Science and Pharma), Government of Telangana, speaks on the BIO Asia International Conference, its highlights this year, the state’s initiatives to further growth in the life sciences industry and more, in an interview with Lakshmipriya Nair

How is BioAsia 2019 coming up? There is an interesting theme this year, ‘Disrupt the Disruption,’ what does it entail?

BioAsia 2019 is shaping up very well indeed. This will be the 16th edition and will be held from February 25-27, 2019 in Hyderabad International Convention Center. Over the years, the event has gained significant stature and prestige, and witnesses’ participation from industry and scientific leaders from over 50 countries year-on-year. The event has emerged as the biggest event in the country in every perspective, in terms of footfalls, B2B meetings, business transactions, working group discussions, participation of global thought leaders etc.

Each year, the event has overarching theme, which is opportune and relevant to the sector. The theme for this year BioAsia is ‘Life Sciences 4.0 Disrupt the Disruption’ and we have received enthusiastic response from the industry. The event will focus on reimagining healthcare as a result of technological advances.

How will this year’s event help the state leverage its capabilities in both technology and life sciences?

In recent years, the rapid application of digital and other technological advances to life sciences and healthcare is leading to exciting new applications. Traditional ways of doing business are being challenged by new entrants. In this context, BioAsia 2019 will focus on reimagining healthcare as a result of these new developments. We have carefully curated sessions around the overarching theme of Life Sciences 4.0 in which we shall deliberate the opportunities in healthcare with the advent of technology.