Alexa Lifesciences Launches Saline Production Plant in Morang with Over 1 Billion Investment

Biratnagar. A saline production industry named 'Alexa Lifesciences' has come into operation in Budhiganga Rural Municipality-2, Morang, with an investment of over 1 billion.

The industry, which meets international standards, was formally inaugurated on Friday by senior cardiologist Dr. Bhagwan Koirala amidst a special ceremony.

Established with the objective of achieving self-reliance in the health sector by producing saline domestically, the industry has already begun bringing its products to the market. Entrepreneurs Dinesh Thakur and Ranjit Bhagat brought this industry into operation after five years of continuous study and planning.

The operators claim that medicine production has started according to international standards using state-of-the-art German technology machines. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Koirala stated that domestic medicine production is a matter of pride for the nation. He said, 'Producing medicine within the country is a positive step. If this can be continued without compromising on quality, it will make a significant contribution to the country.'

In the first phase, the industry is currently producing saline under 'Large Volume Parenterals' ranging from 100 ml to 3,000 ml. Director Dinesh Thakur informed that there are plans to produce 'Small Volume Parenterals' from 1 to 20 ml in the second phase and eye and ear drops in the third phase.

'Our main objective is to provide quality medicine at an affordable price and reduce dependence on imported medicine,' said Thakur, 'However, due to high production costs of saline and lack of market price adjustment, we are currently forced to produce at a loss.'

He drew attention to the fact that if the government does not provide policy reforms and necessary concessions, domestic industries could collapse.

The industry currently provides direct employment to 150 people. Adopting skilled manpower and a state-of-the-art management system, the industry plans to export medicine abroad in the long run. It is claimed to be Nepal's leading company with fully domestic investment and production in saline manufacturing.

At a time when a large share of the medicine market in Nepal is occupied by foreign companies, stakeholders have said that the operation of Alexa Lifesciences has raised new hopes in the industrial and health sectors. It is expected to reduce dependence on imports and contribute significantly to the country's economic development.