The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, along with its public sector undertaking, the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), has renewed its Engagement Strategy with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The renewed agreement, signed on 18 September 2025, extends the partnership first established in October 2019 for cooperation on vaccine and allied technology research, development and innovation. The Union Cabinet has noted and accepted the renewal.

CEPI is a global multi-stakeholder coalition that brings together public, private, philanthropic and civil organisations to accelerate vaccine development for emerging infectious diseases and ensure timely access during outbreaks. As of March 2025, its supporters include several national governments, the European Commission, and philanthropic bodies such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Wellcome Trust.

Since 2019, DBT and BIRAC have collaborated with CEPI on vaccine research targeting diseases with epidemic potential. Major achievements of this partnership include early-stage development of vaccine candidates for chikungunya, coronavirus and monkeypox; establishment of shared research infrastructure such as a bioassay laboratory and an experimental animal facility; and extensive capacity-building programmes.

The DBT–BRIC–THSTI bioassay laboratory and the associated animal facility have been recognised by CEPI as part of its Centralised Lab Network and Animal Lab Network respectively, making them important national assets for vaccine development. The bioassay lab has supported multiple Indian and global vaccine candidates from pre-clinical stages through to phase-3 efficacy trials. Training programmes in vaccine development and clinical research have further strengthened national capability.

The renewed Engagement Strategy broadens the scope of cooperation to include research and development of allied biomedical technologies, such as monoclonal antibodies. The partnership will also cover pathogens listed under the WHO R&D Blueprint for priority diseases.

Renewing the strategy marks a significant step in enhancing India’s preparedness for pandemics by combining CEPI’s technical expertise with India’s growing scientific capabilities. The collaboration will help strengthen critical research infrastructure, expand skilled human resources and support rapid and effective responses to emerging health threats. It also aligns with national development priorities and Sustainable Development Goals relating to good health and well-being.