New Delhi, Feb. 2 -- Speaking on the Union Budget 2026-27, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Rajiv Bahl noted that the government has initiated a significant push to transform the country's pharmaceutical landscape by addressing regulatory gaps and enhancing research infrastructure. Speaking to ANI on Sunday, Bahl said, "A big step has been taken to overcome the shortcomings in the regulator in the pharma sector."

Bahl said that the Budget particularly focuses on innovation and research in the pharmaceutical sector, healthcare, and drug manufacturing, all of which are critical.

"The allocation for the Department of Health Research has increased from Rs 3,900 crore to over Rs 4,820 crore, a 24% increase. The 'Bio...