Why is it in the news?

• The Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has launched the Revamped Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (RPTUAS).
• This initiative is a revamp of the erstwhile Pharmaceuticals Technology Upgradation Assistance Scheme (PTUAS), which was a component of the Strengthening of Pharmaceutical Industry (SPI) Scheme.

About RPTUAS

• It aims to support the pharmaceutical industry in upgrading its technology and processes to meet the standards set by Revised Schedule-M and WHO-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).

Broadened Eligibility Criteria:

• The scheme is open to all pharmaceutical manufacturing units that require technology and quality upgradation.
• Eligibility is contingent upon meeting turnover criteria, although preference is given to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Expanded Eligible Activities:

• Under RPTUAS, investments in various aspects of pharmaceutical manufacturing infrastructure are considered eligible activities.
• These activities include but are not limited to investments in water and steam utilities, testing laboratories, stability chambers, waste management systems, and other essential infrastructure upgrades.

Flexible Financing Options:

• Unlike the traditional credit-linked approach, RPTUAS emphasizes providing subsidies on a reimbursement basis.
• This flexible financing option aims to ease the financial burden on pharmaceutical manufacturers and facilitate smoother technology upgradation processes.

Integration with State Government Schemes:

• One notable feature of RPTUAS is its allowance for integration with state government schemes.
• This integration enables participating units to avail themselves of additional top-up assistance provided by respective state governments, further enhancing support for technology upgradation initiatives.

Enhanced Verification Mechanism:

• To ensure transparency, accountability, and efficient allocation of resources, RPTUAS incorporates an enhanced verification mechanism.
• A Project Management Agency (PMA) oversees the verification process, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately and utilized effectively.