Suchitra Ella :A True Power Lady

Earlier this year, Bharat Biotech launched its nasal vaccine , iNCOVACC. Administered in the form of nasal drops, it produces an effective immune response. It was launched by Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, on the occasion of Republic Day. On the occasion,

Dr Mandaviya, said, “The launch of the iNCOVACC vaccine is an important milestone in the Atma Nirbhar Bharat vision. Today, India contributes 65 per cent of the vaccine needs of the world, saving lives of children, adolescents and adults. It is also great to note that, in global dialogue, India's manufacturing, research and innovation capabilities are admired. India will not be just known as the pharmacy of the world, but will be known for its research and innovation in vaccines.”

Most people associate Bharat Biotech with Covaxin, the Covid-19 vaccine. The contribution of the company during the pandemic is well known. Its founders, Suchitra Ella and Dr Krishna Ella, were honoured with the Padma Bhushan for their contribution to medicine. Suchitra Ella graduated with distinction from the University of Madras in Economics and Social Sciences. She studied Marketing and Business at UWCU Madison, WI and has a post-graduate diploma in Patent Law from NALSAR Hyderabad. She co-founded Bharat Biotech with Dr Krishna Ella in 1996.

Under her leadership, Bharat Biotech has established an excellent track record of innovation with more than 145 global patents. It has a wide product portfolio of more than 16 vaccines, four bio-therapeutics, and registrations in more than 120 countries. Some of the accomplishments she cherishes are the product and clinical development competencies for vaccines such as Rotavirus, Typhoid TCV, JE, Covid- 19, Zika, Chikungunya, among others in the company’s portfolio.

Ella believes in the value of gender parity. “Empowering women through technology and innovation is not just a moral imperative, it's a strategic imperative for businesses in today's digital world,” says Ella. “As a woman, I strive to lead by example, leveraging the power of technology to create a more inclusive and gender-equal workplace. Let's use this International Women's Day to amplify the call for DigitALL progress towards a future

where every woman has an equal opportunity to succeed. Let us join the world to celebrate the remarkable achievements of women in every field and continue our unwavering commitment to create a workplace that is inclusive, supportive, and empowering for women. It is the moment to renew our commitment to gender equality and use the tools of biotechnology to build a better health and future for all” she says.

In addition to work, this powerhouse prioritises her family and devotes time to philanthropic activities – doing her bit to build a better world.