JAMMU: CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, inaugurated its three-day Skill Development Training Programme focused on "Hands-on Training on Synthesis of Key Intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs)" today at its campus in Jammu. The programme, scheduled from 3rd to 5th February 2025, aims to enhance participants' technical skills in advanced pharmaceutical synthesis techniques, fostering a deeper understanding of emerging technologies and innovative approaches in drug development. Twenty-five participants from different parts of the country have been selected for this hands-on Training.
The event was inaugurated by Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director CSIR-IIIM, Jammu. In his address, Dr Ahmed emphasized the importance of capacity building in the pharmaceutical sector to bridge the skill gap and support India's vision of becoming a global hub for high-quality APIs. He further highlighted how such initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and contribute to the nation’s mission for a ‘Viksit Bharat’. Dr Ahmed further said that Hands-on training in the synthesis of key intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) equips participants with practical skills in designing and executing multi-step organic reactions, purification techniques and analytical validation. He further advised participants to gain proficiency in optimizing reaction conditions, scaling up processes, and adhering to safety and regulatory standards.
Dr Ahmed said that India despite having the third-largest pharmaceutical industry by volume in the world and being the largest manufacturer of generic medicines globally, India is heavily dependent on China for imports of raw materials, Key Starting Materials (KSMs), and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and such programs bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world pharmaceutical manufacturing, preparing professionals to contribute effectively to drug development and quality assurance in the industry.
The training programme comprises a comprehensive module that combines expert lectures and hands-on lab sessions. The first day of the programme featured a blend of informative lectures and interactive hands-on training sessions, providing participants with a strong foundation in advanced synthesis methodologies. These sessions were carefully curated to equip attendees with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in pharmaceutical synthesis. The day began with a lecture on "Next-Gen API Production – Emerging Technologies & Strategies", delivered by Dr. Amol Gade, Scientist, NPMC Division.
This session offered an insightful overview of innovative technologies and strategic approaches driving next-generation API production. Participants gained valuable knowledge about the latest advancements shaping the pharmaceutical industry, laying a strong groundwork for the practical sessions. The second lecture, led by Dr. Prasoon Gupta, Sr. Principal Scientist, NPMC Division, CSIR-IIIM, focused on Lab Safety. Dr. Gupta highlighted the importance of adhering to best practices for maintaining a secure and efficient working environment during pharmaceutical synthesis. This engaging session underscored the critical role of safety protocols in fostering a hazard-free and productive laboratory environment.
The afternoon practical sessions provided participants with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and explored different synthesis techniques. These focused lab sessions offered participants the opportunity to gain practical knowledge of API synthesis techniques, essential for research and development in the pharmaceutical industry.
The successful completion of the first day of the training programme has laid a solid foundation for the subsequent sessions. Over the next two days, participants will explore advanced topics, including the role of natural products in drug discovery and the synergy between natural product chemistry and synthetic organic chemistry.
The programme reflects CSIR-IIIM’s commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce in pharmaceutical science and innovation. By equipping participants with advanced technical expertise, the institute continues to contribute to the growth of India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
Several scientists, technologists, and researchers attended the inaugural program. Prominent among those present were Dr Qazi Naveed, Head NPMC Division, Dr PP Singh, Senior Principal Scientist, Dr. Nasir Ul Rasheed, Nodal Scientist, Skill Development. The welcome address was given by Dr Qazi Naveed, while Dr PP Singh gave insights into the Three-Day Hands-on Training program, and a Formal vote of Thanks was presented by Dr Nasir Ul Rasheed. Norein Sikander, PhD Scholar, conducted the proceedings of the inaugural session.
