Creating a Future Ready Pharma QC and Microbiology Ecosystem

According to the India Skills Report, the pharma industry had a high skill gap in quality control (QC) and other critical areas, with an employability rate of 37 per cent, far lower than the 46 per cent national average.

- 

Salavadi Easwaran, Academic Dean, Biocon Academy

As automation reshapes the industry, addressing this talent shortage is key to sustaining India's global leadership in pharmaceuticals. Let's take a closer look at the QC talent gap, the function of upskilling, and potential solutions.

For decades, India's pharmaceutical industry has built its reputation on scale and speed, cementing its status as the “Pharmacy to the World.” At the heart of this success lies stringent quality control (QC), ensuring drug safety, efficacy, and compliance with global standards, optimal patient outcomes and access to lifesaving drugs. However, as automation, AI, and rapid microbiological methods reshape QC, a growing challenge leads to slow progress—a shortage of skilled professionals who are adept at operating these evolving systems.

Fresh graduates have theoretical knowledge, might have the intent and interest, but hands-on expertise is missing, while experienced professionals, trained in manual QC methods, struggle to keep pace with rapid digitisation. The result? A widening gap between cutting-edge technology and a workforce unprepared to manage it. This isn't just about hiring—it's about redefining how talent is developed, trained, and retained. In an industry where precision is everything, a skill gap isn't just a workforce issue; it can pose a risk to public health.