Serum Institute of India

Serum Institute of India (SII) is an Indian biotechnology and biopharmaceuticals company, which is primarily focused on the production of immunobiological drugs, including vaccines. It was founded in 1966 by Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla with the aim of manufacturing life-saving immunobiologicals, which India had to import at high costs at that time. The company is headquartered in Pune, Maharashtra, India, and has grown to become the world's largest vaccine manufacturer by number of doses produced and sold globally (more than 1.5 billion doses which include Polio, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hib, BCG, r-Hepatitis B, Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccines).

History

The Serum Institute of India was established in 1966, after Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla realized the need for India to produce its own vaccines at a time when the country was heavily dependent on imports. The company started its operations by launching its first therapeutic antitetanus serum within two years of its inception and gradually expanded its portfolio to include more vaccines.

Products

SII's product range includes vaccines for Polio, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (Whooping Cough), Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b), Hepatitis B, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Influenza. The company also manufactures antitoxins and other life-saving immunobiologicals.

Global Reach

Serum Institute of India exports its products to over 170 countries and has been accredited by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Indian FDA, and several other regulatory bodies across the globe. Its vaccines are used in national immunization programs, saving millions of lives every year.

COVID-19 Response

During the COVID-19 pandemic, SII played a pivotal role in the global fight against the virus. It entered into a partnership with AstraZeneca to produce the Oxford–AstraZeneca vaccine (Covishield) for low-and-middle-income countries. Additionally, SII also collaborated with Novavax to produce a COVID-19 vaccine for India and other developing countries.

Facilities

The Serum Institute of India operates from its state-of-the-art manufacturing and R&D facilities in Pune, Maharashtra. The company's plants are equipped with the latest technology to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety in the production of vaccines.

Challenges and Controversies

Like any major pharmaceutical company, SII has faced its share of challenges and controversies, including legal battles over patent issues and concerns over vaccine safety and efficacy. However, it has consistently worked to address these issues and maintain transparency in its operations.

Future Directions

Serum Institute of India continues to expand its vaccine portfolio and explore new technologies in vaccine development. The company is also focusing on increasing its global footprint and enhancing its contribution to global health security.