Ninety years ago, Mumbai headquartered Cipla Ltd, began with a mission to make medicines affordable and accessible for Indians. What started as a commitment to self-reliance in pharmaceuticals has evolved into a global healthcare enterprise serving millions of patients across markets.
As Cipla celebrates 90 years of its journey, the company is looking ahead with a renewed focus on innovation, science and patient-centric healthcare solutions.
The milestone year has been marked by the release of a customised ‘My Stamp’ by the Department of Posts and the launch of The Cipla Story: A Legacy of Care in collaboration with Amar Chitra Katha, bringing the company’s journey to younger generations.
A legacy built on access
Over the past nine decades, Cipla has played a key role in India’s pharmaceutical industry, from establishing indigenous active pharmaceutical ingredient manufacturing capabilities to introducing the country’s first indigenously developed inhaler.
Its global reputation was strengthened when it launched the world’s first triple-combination HIV/AIDS therapy at less than $1 a day, making life-saving treatment affordable for patients across developing countries.
“The lessons we have learnt over the past 90 years have shaped the enterprising and enduring spirit of Cipla. The release of a commemorative stamp by the Department of Posts is a national recognition of Cipla’s contribution to public health,” said Cipla, Chairman Y.K. Hamied in the latest annual report.
Looking towards the centenary
Hamied said the Amar Chitra Katha collaboration holds special significance as it captures Cipla’s legacy in a form that resonates with younger generations and highlights how science guided by compassion can transform lives.
Today, Cipla has built strong positions in respiratory care, complex generics and specialty medicines while expanding its presence across major markets including the United States, Africa and China.
As healthcare systems evolve rapidly, the company plans to strengthen its innovation capabilities and expand access to newer therapies. Looking ahead to its centenary in 2035, Cipla aims to continue balancing scientific advancement with its long-standing commitment to affordability and care.
“The success of a company cannot be judged by financial performance alone. What truly matters is the quality of the journey and the contribution made to society,” Hamied said.