Cipla launches drone delivery of medicines in Himachal Pradesh

BSE and NSE-listed Cipla announced the launch of drone-powered deliveries for critical medicines (cardiac, respiratory and other essential chronic therapies) for hospitals and pharmacies in Himachal Pradesh in partnership with Skye Air Mobility.

"The use of drones will support on-time delivery of Cipla’s medicines to chemists and clinics in remote areas while minimising risks such as delays, temperature excursions affecting cold chain products and roadside accidents. Cipla is the first among large Indian pharma companies to adopt drone-based deliveries to facilitate expedited supply to stockists in remote areas," says an official release.

In its inaugural phase, the company has successfully completed several drone deliveries in Himachal Pradesh covering approximately 50 kilometres in under 25 minutes.

“Driven by our purpose of Caring for Life, we are leveraging technology to make healthcare more accessible and extend our circle of care to all our key stakeholders," says Swapn Malpani, Global Supply Chain Head, Cipla. "As we accelerate our digital agenda across all functions, implementing drone-powered distribution enhances our supply chain resilience, strengthens connects with channel partners, helps us stay future ready and maintain reliable, prompt delivery of our trusted high-quality drugs to stockists and patients in the region."

Cipla aims to scale the service through distribution to hospitals, and expand market coverage to inaccessible and hilly terrains such as Uttarakhand and Northeast, the release added.