Japan’s Takeda Pharmaceutical Company has taken a significant leap forward in its digital transformation journey by establishing its first Asian Innovation Capability Centre (ICC) in Bengaluru, India. This facility, launched on 15th January 2025, is set to redefine the role of digital health solutions and research and development (R&D) in the pharmaceutical sector. With plans to employ 750 professionals by 2025, the ICC underscores Takeda’s commitment to leveraging India’s tech prowess to drive healthcare innovations on a global scale.

A Strategic Choice: Why Bengaluru?

Bengaluru’s reputation as India’s technology hub played a pivotal role in Takeda’s decision to establish its ICC in the city. Tilak Banerjee, Head of Takeda ICC – India, emphasized the availability of niche talent in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and software engineering. Currently employing 275 specialists, the centre is poised to scale up by integrating high-impact offerings in plasma-derived therapy donor systems and multi-language patient support tools.

Additionally, Karnataka’s State GCC Policy, offering lucrative incentives to global firms, further cemented Bengaluru’s position as the ideal location for this innovation centre.

Takeda’s Vision for Digital Biopharma

Unlike traditional global capability centers (GCCs) focusing on finance or HR, Takeda’s ICC is tailored to high-impact areas in digital health and R&D. The company’s partnerships with Amazon Web Services (AWS), Salesforce, and SAP highlight its commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its operations. Over the next 3-5 years, the Bengaluru ICC aims to evolve into a full-fledged digital biopharmaceutical entity, shaping global healthcare advancements.

Implications for the Indian Healthcare Industry

The establishment of Takeda’s ICC in Bengaluru is a milestone for India’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. Here’s how this development is likely to impact the wider industry:

1. Boost to Digital Healthcare Innovation: The ICC’s focus on scalable, tech-driven solutions will accelerate the adoption of digital tools in the Indian healthcare ecosystem, enabling better patient outcomes and operational efficiencies.
2. Talent Development and Upskilling: Takeda’s emphasis on niche talent acquisition and upskilling initiatives will create a robust pipeline of skilled professionals, contributing to India’s position as a global leader in health-tech innovation.
3. Strengthening R&D Partnerships: With over 180 global R&D collaborations, Takeda’s presence in India will open new avenues for partnerships with local pharmaceutical giants like Sun Pharma, Cipla, Lupin, and Abbott India. This synergy is expected to drive advancements in drug development and delivery systems.
4. Economic and Policy Advantages: Karnataka’s GCC Policy, coupled with Takeda’s strategic investments, sets a precedent for other global pharmaceutical companies to explore India as a hub for innovation and growth.
5. Global Application of Local Solutions: Solutions developed in the Bengaluru ICC will be deployed across Takeda’s global operations, showcasing India’s capability to create impactful, scalable healthcare technologies for the world.

Also Read: National Startup Day 2025: Startups Shaping the Future of India’s Infertility with AI-ML

A Legacy of Collaboration

Takeda’s history in India dates back to 1999 with its partnership with Zydus—Zydus Takeda Healthcare Private Limited—and the establishment of a commercial facility in Gurgaon in 2003. The launch of the ICC marks a new chapter in this legacy, aligning with the company’s broader vision of transforming into a digital biopharma leader.

Takeda’s innovation centre in Bengaluru is more than just a milestone for the company; it’s a testament to India’s growing prominence in the global healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. As the ICC drives advancements in R&D and digital health, its ripple effects will significantly enhance the capabilities of India’s healthcare ecosystem, paving the way for a future where technology and medicine converge seamlessly.

For healthcare industry leaders, this development is an invitation to collaborate, innovate, and harness the immense potential of India’s talent and technology to drive global healthcare transformation.

Like

Dislike

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter , Instagram.