Amit Sehgal, VP & GM - Lab Solutions Segment, AMEA, Avantor
In an exclusive interview with India Pharma Outlook, Amit Sehgal, VP & GM - Lab Solutions Segment, AMEA, Avantor, emphasizes how the Indian scientific sector is facing a quality problem owing to skyrocketing demand, which has put tremendous pressure on the manufacturers. He further elaborates on how striving towards higher quality can drive innovation and sustainability. He is a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience in life sciences, biotechnology, healthcare, and agrochemicals. He has held leadership roles at Transasia Bio-Medicals, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and GE Healthcare, driving business growth, strategic planning, and operational efficiency.
In the fast-paced, dynamic world of scientific research and development, laboratories are at the heart of innovation, discovery, and progress. According to a Market Research Future study, the global laboratory equipment market is growing rapidly, from being valued at $52.65 billion in 2023 and projected to grow from $56.60 billion in 2024 to $102.11 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 7.66% during 2024 – 2032 period.
Further, according to a report generated by Industry ARC, the Indian Laboratory Equipment Services market size is estimated to reach $22.1 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 11.1% during the forecast period 2022-2027. Whether in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, environmental science, or other fields, the work conducted in laboratories is fundamental to our understanding of the natural world and our ability to improve it. Amid this landscape, where precision and reliability are paramount, quality emerges as the cornerstone of all lab solutions. It is the critical factor that underpins the accuracy, reproducibility and credibility of scientific findings.
Quality in lab solutions encompasses everything from the raw materials used in experiments to the final data produced. At its core, quality means consistency, reliability, and trust. For researchers, knowing that the materials and equipment they use will perform as expected every single time is crucial. Any deviation in quality can lead to errors, skewed results, and significant setbacks in research.
For instance, in the pharmaceutical industry, the quality of lab solutions can directly impact patient safety. Subpar reagents or equipment can lead to incorrect formulations or inaccurate dosages, with potentially serious consequences. Similarly, in environmental testing, low-quality lab solutions can result in misleading data, which can affect public health and environmental policies. Thus, quality is not merely about meeting specifications; it is a moral and ethical responsibility.
Innovation is the lifeblood of science, driving new discoveries and solutions to global challenges. However, innovation cannot thrive without a strong foundation of quality. High-quality lab solutions provide the basis for testing, validating, and bringing new ideas to fruition.
Take the development of new drugs, for example. This process involves numerous experiments requiring precise measurements, controlled conditions, and accurate data. Any compromise in the quality of lab solutions can lead to false conclusions, potentially derailing years of research. Conversely, when quality is assured, researchers can push the boundaries of their work, confident that their results are reliable and reproducible.
Moreover, quality-driven innovation leads to superior products and solutions that can withstand rigorous scrutiny and regulatory approval. In the production of biologics, where the complexity of molecules demands meticulous attention to detail, every component—from cell culture media to purification tools—must be of the highest quality. Ensuring that products meet the highest standards allows researchers to innovate confidently, knowing that their materials are dependable.
Quality assurance is a cornerstone of lab solutions. It begins with the selection of raw materials and extends through every stage of production, packaging, and distribution. Adherence to international standards and regulations, such as ISO 9001 and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ensures that products consistently meet or exceed expectations.
A key element of a robust quality assurance process is traceability. Should any issue arise, it is possible to trace the problem back through the entire production process, identify the root cause, and implement corrective actions. This level of transparency and accountability is crucial for maintaining the trust of researchers and regulatory bodies.
Additionally, continuous improvement initiatives are essential. Leveraging advanced technologies like automation and digitalization enhances quality control processes. By using data analytics and machine learning, trends can be identified, potential issues predicted, and proactive measures taken to prevent impacts on product quality. This forward-thinking approach ensures that lab solutions remain at the forefront of the industry, setting the standard for excellence.
Quality in lab solutions also plays a vital role in sustainability. High-quality products are typically more durable and reliable, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste. Consistent performance in lab solutions also reduces the need for repeated experiments, conserving time, resources, and energy.
A commitment to sustainability requires recognizing that quality is integral to this effort. Products should be designed and manufactured with environmental considerations in mind, using processes that minimize waste and reduce the carbon footprint. By prioritizing quality, the scientific community can advance progress while contributing to a more sustainable future.
In India, ensuring quality in lab solutions presents unique challenges. The rapid expansion of the scientific sector and the growing demand for high-quality lab products put pressure on manufacturers and suppliers to meet stringent standards. Issues such as inconsistent regulatory enforcement, varying levels of infrastructure and resource constraints can affect the consistency and reliability of lab solutions.
To address these challenges, it is crucial to implement comprehensive quality management systems and invest in training and infrastructure. Collaboration with regulatory bodies and adherence to international standards can also help elevate the quality of lab solutions. By overcoming these challenges, the Indian scientific community can ensure that its research and development efforts are supported by high-quality, reliable lab solutions.
In conclusion, quality is undeniably the cornerstone of lab solutions. It is the foundation upon which scientific discoveries are built, the bedrock of innovation, and a critical factor in ensuring safety, reliability, and sustainability. Upholding the highest standards ensures that researchers can achieve their goals, drive scientific progress, and make a positive impact on the world.
As we look to the future, maintaining a strong commitment to quality in every aspect—from product development to process improvement—will ensure that laboratory solutions continue to meet current needs and effectively address future challenges.
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