Dear Shareholders,
During the past three years, we have seen the COVID-19 pandemic erupt
and subside. It has been a relentless battle for all concerned. We have witnessed a wide
range of medical advancements to cater to the health and well-being of COVID-19 patients.
The pharma industry continues to explore new frontiers in scientific research and
innovation. On a continuous basis, the industry develops novel therapies for unmet medical
needs and also promotes incremental innovations in existing therapies. Medical science has
transitioned from chemistry to a new world of biologics, gene and stem cell therapies. In
recent years, there has been remarkable progress in research and one must acknowledge the
achievements of scientists for their collective efforts to deliver, not only life-saving
drugs for the benefit of humanity, but also a range of newer diagnostics, devices,
advanced essential and personalised medicines.
Since the inception of Cipla in 1935, drug innovation has been at the
forefront of our culture. Over the years, we have been instrumental in introducing many
innovative therapies which have improved and revolutionised treatment of several ailments.
We were among the first in India to introduce anti-malarial drugs at the onset of World
War II. Subsequently, Cipla pioneered the introduction of drugs for the treatment of
respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. Later, we introduced the first oral iron
chelator in the world and in 2000, Cipla was the first to introduce a fixed dose
combination of anti-retroviral drugs against HIV/ AIDS, which helped save millions of
lives. Overall, Cipla has been a pioneer in the introduction of many essential drugs over
the years including the fluoroquinolone antibiotics for the first time in India.
Currently, we are embarking on a forward journey to create the Cipla of
the future. We are investing our resources in newer areas of treatment such as Biotech,
mRNA and CAR (T)-cell therapies, Digital Health and Stem Cell research. This advancement
is crucial as many chronic diseases continue to impact the lives of people globally. Apart
from this, our medical teams are concentrating their efforts to combat Antimicrobial
Resistance (AMR), Climate Change and related problems arising out of these.
Cipla's purpose of 'Caring for Life' has been our
guiding mission over the years and reflects our culture of care and compassion. We strive
to do our best to make a difference in the lives of all. We believe that success does not
make a company great, what really matters is its contribution to the welfare of the
society. We established a Palliative care and training centre in Pune over 25 years ago
and have since addressed the needs of over 22,500 patients and their families. This gives
us a great deal of satisfaction and has firmed up our strategy to increase access to
palliative care across the country. The Cipla Foundation currently works with 28 partners
in India to improve the quality of life of both children and adults who suffer from
serious illnesses. We also support patients' families and caretakers. The foundation is
committed to work with partners to integrate palliative care within the health care system
to serve patients even in remote locations.
The financial year ending 31st March, 2023 has been another commendable
one for Cipla. This is a testament to the dedication and commitment of all our employees
who are regarded as our Cipla family. During the year, Cipla received many awards and
recognitions in the life sciences and healthcare categories. We sincerely believe that it
is of the utmost importance to collectively align ourselves to address the future
healthcare needs and emerging concerns that are facing the world. There is no doubt that
we must leverage our expertise, knowledge and research acumen created over the years to
help society navigate the difficult years ahead.
As always, my sincere gratitude to all fellow directors, management,
shareholders, medical professionals, and those concerned in the industry for their
continued faith and trust in Cipla. The forward vision of your Company will provide
continuing value in improving the quality of life for all as best possible.
Best wishes and warmest regards to all of you and your families.
Warm regards,
Y K Hamied
Chairman