CAG Uncovers Major Flaws in National Biopharma Mission: Hiring, Contracts, Funds Questioned

• CAG audit reveals weak governance, lack of transparency, and limited outcomes in the National Biopharma Mission (NBM) despite substantial public funding.
• Severe manpower shortages: Only 12 of 51 sanctioned posts filled, Mission Director vacant for two years, 39 posts remained vacant.
• Irregular hiring and non-transparent contract awards: Consultant hired for ₹5 cr without provision; ₹163.26 cr (10.88%) allocated on nomination basis; direct work orders for ₹6.62 cr.
• Weak financial controls: Grants released without meeting milestones (e.g., ₹1.37 cr for cholera vaccine); ₹47.23 cr expenses unscrutinized; ₹8.38 cr unrecovered from foreclosed projects.
• Limited tangible outcomes: Only 13 of 87 expected products launched (14.94%), with no documentary evidence; no affordability clauses for critical products like vaccines.

Why It Matters: CAG audit highlights NBM's failure due to systemic flaws, poor governance, and financial irregularities.