Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw

Pioneering Indian biotech entrepreneur who transformed India's pharmaceutical industry through innovation

Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (born August 23, 1953) is the founder of Biocon Limited, India's first biotechnology company. Starting with just ₹10,000 in 1978, she built Biocon into a global leader in biosimilars and biotherapeutic drugs, challenging multinational pharmaceutical giants. Her innovations have made life-saving medicines affordable for millions worldwide.

Breakthrough Innovations

Mazumdar-Shaw pioneered India's biotech sector by developing insulin production processes that reduced costs by 60%. Her company's insulin analog Insugen became the first recombinant human insulin approved in the EU. She also commercialized the world's first biosimilar insulin glargine, revolutionizing diabetes treatment in developing countries.

Global Impact & Advocacy

Under her leadership, Biocon became the first Indian biotech company to be listed on the NASDAQ. Mazumdar-Shaw has consistently advocated for women in STEM through initiatives like the UN Women's Empowerment Principles. She was awarded India's highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2009 for her contributions to science and industry. Her TED Talk "Biotech's Bright Future in India" highlights her vision for sustainable healthcare innovation.