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.
| · SPI Scheme aims to bolster infrastructure to position India as a global leader in the Pharma Sector. |
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.
| Turnover (Last Three Years) | Incentive |
| Less than Rs 50 crore | 20% of investment under eligible activities |
| Rs 50 crore to less than Rs 250 crore | 15% of investment under eligible activities |
| Rs 250 crore to less than Rs 500 crore | 10% of investment under eligible activities |
