In a push to accelerate digital transformation, global pharmaceutical companies are increasingly setting up Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. According to industry experts, India’s political stability and strong domestic consumption make it an attractive destination—especially as many economies face a slowdown.
GCC Market in India Set to Exceed $100 Billion
A recent Ernst & Young report estimates that India’s GCC market will exceed $100 billion, hosting over 2,500 centres and employing 4.5 million professionals. Within this space, the Life Sciences and Healthcare (LSHC) sector is witnessing rapid growth. A Healthark white paper projects that the number of pharma GCCs will rise from 100 in 2024 to over 160 by 2030, employing more than 420,000 professionals.
India’s Talent and Innovation Ecosystem Attracts Global Players
India’s vast tech talent pool remains a major draw for multinational pharma firms. In addition, companies are leveraging India’s start-up ecosystem and collaborative innovation environment to strengthen their GCC operations.
For instance, Novo Nordisk employs 4,500 professionals at its Global Business Services (GBS) centre in Bengaluru, supporting operations across over 100 countries.
Sanofi has established a GCC in Hyderabad, one of its four global hubs. “Our Hyderabad centre supports everything from commercial and manufacturing functions to advanced R&D in AI, data analytics, and emerging technologies,” said Minal Duggal, Head of Sanofi Global Services, Hyderabad.
Similarly, Takeda launched its first Innovation Capability Centre (ICC) in Asia last year in Bengaluru. “We started with 340 employees, and plan to scale to about 770 by year-end,” said Tilak Banerjee, Head of Takeda ICC, India.
Eli Lilly operates two GCCs in India—Bengaluru and Hyderabad. “India is home to 15% of our global R&D workforce, with 1,500 people across both centres—our largest presence outside the US,” said Dan Skovronsky, Chief Scientific Officer and Executive Vice-President of Science at Eli Lilly.
From Cost Centres to Strategic Hubs
Over time, India-based GCCs have evolved significantly. “What began as cost-arbitrage operations have transformed into centres of innovation, R&D, and strategic decision-making,” noted Dawber, an industry observer. He highlighted that many GCCs now serve as hubs of excellence in data science, AI, and high-value global initiatives.
India’s Role in Global Pharma Innovation Deepens
As India cements its position as a preferred destination for GCCs, the country is playing a pivotal role in global pharma innovation and digital transformation. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, with investments in tech, research, and people, pharma majors are not just setting up back offices –they’re building the future of healthcare innovation from India.
