Pharmexcil DG Urges Member Companies to Avail PTUAS Scheme

With a focus on quality enhancement and capacity building, the scheme aligns with broader objectives to foster innovation and excellence within the pharmaceutical industry.

Director General of Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) (DG) Uday Bhaskar has called upon member companies to avail the benefits of the revamped Pharmaceutical Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (PTUAS).

The revamped scheme is set to provide a significant impetus to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in the pharmaceutical sector, enabling them to elevate their standards and compete more effectively globally. 

Talking on the matter, Bhaskar said, "The participation of Pharmexcil member companies in the PTUAS scheme is critical for maximizing its impact on the pharmaceutical industry. Leveraging the incentives offered under the scheme, manufacturers can accelerate their technological upgradation and enhance their global competitiveness."

With a focus on quality enhancement and capacity building, the scheme aligns with broader objectives to foster innovation and excellence within the pharmaceutical industry.

What is PTUAS Scheme?

Under the revised PTUAS scheme, manufacturing units with turnovers ranging from INR 1 Cr to less than INR 50 Cr will receive a subsidy of 20% of the investment for eligible activities. 

Similarly, units with turnovers between INR 50 Cr to less than INR 250 Cr and INR 250 Cr to less than INR 500 Cr will receive 15% and 10% subsidies, respectively.

The scheme encompasses various eligible activities, including investments made for upgradation after January 1, 2024. 

It also covers expenditures on utilities such as air conditioning, water, steam, clean room facilities, testing labs, stability chambers, effluent treatment, waste management, consultation/certification expenses, and other items recommended by the technical committee to calculate subsidy amounts.

Additionally, interested parties are encouraged to refer to the official guidelines on the Department of Pharmaceuticals' website for further clarity.

Comprehensive Review of PTUAS

The DoP recently announced revamping the PTUAS sub-scheme, introducing several changes to better support MSME manufacturers in enhancing their quality standards. 

The overhaul follows a comprehensive review conducted by the Scheme Steering Committee, aligning with the updated requirements outlined in the revised Schedule-M of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rule, 1945. 

Notably, the revised guidelines eliminate the penalty clause and bank guarantee requirement present in the previous version.

"The revamped PTUAS scheme aims to provide essential financial assistance to MSME manufacturers, enabling them to upgrade their infrastructure and meet stringent quality standards," Bhaskar added.

According to the department, the revision aims to broaden eligibility criteria and provide flexible financing options. The focus has shifted towards subsidies provided on a reimbursement basis, aiming to encourage broader participation and comprehensive support for compliance with new standards. 

Additionally, the revamped scheme integrates with state government schemes to assist units.

The revamped PTUAS scheme offers a timely boost to MSMEs in the pharmaceutical sector, facilitating their journey towards enhanced quality standards and global competitiveness. 

The encouragement of participation from pharmexcil member companies underscores the collaborative efforts to drive progress and excellence within the pharmaceutical industry.