In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Patil expressed concern over what he termed a move to transfer a critical public health asset into private hands, warning that such a decision could have long-term implications for affordable healthcare in the state
Jayant Patil. File Pic
Senior NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil has raised strong objections to the proposed sale of the seed strain used in DPT (Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus) vaccines to a private company, urging Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to immediately halt the process, reported news agency PTI.
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, Patil expressed concern over what he termed a move to transfer a critical public health asset into private hands, warning that such a decision could have long-term implications for affordable healthcare in the state, reported PTI.
Concerns over transfer of critical biological asset
Patil highlighted that the seed strain used for manufacturing DPT vaccines is a rare and invaluable biological resource with a market value running into thousands of crores of rupees. He cautioned that transferring such an asset to a private entity could undermine public sector capabilities in vaccine production.
The proposal reportedly follows interest from Reliance Life Sciences, which has offered to acquire the strain on commercial terms. Patil noted that the government appears to have initiated steps in this direction, raising serious concerns about transparency and intent.
Haffkine Corporation capable of producing vaccines
The NCP (SP) leader stressed that the state-run Haffkine Bio-Pharmaceutical Corporation already possesses the infrastructure and expertise required to manufacture DPT vaccines at affordable rates, reported PTI.
He argued that instead of selling the strain, the government should empower the Haffkine Corporation to scale up production, thereby ensuring wider access to essential vaccines while retaining control over a strategic resource, reported PTI.
Legacy of Waldemar Haffkine cited
Patil also invoked the legacy of Waldemar Haffkine, after whom the institute is named. He pointed out that Haffkine, a pioneering scientist, developed life-saving vaccines for humanity without seeking patents or commercial gain, reported PTI.
Selling the DPT seed strain, Patil argued, would go against the foundational principles and legacy of the institution, which has historically focused on public welfare and scientific advancement.
Opposition leaders question urgency of proposal
The issue has also been flagged by Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar, who raised concerns during the recent Budget session of the Maharashtra legislative assembly.
Wadettiwar questioned the urgency with which an Expression of Interest was floated by the Haffkine Institute following the proposal from Reliance Life Sciences. He asked why a biological asset valued at approximately Rs 1,500 crore should be transferred to a private entity when the state-run institute itself has the capacity to manufacture vaccines, reported PTI.
Call to cancel sale and prioritise public health
Patil urged the state government to cancel the proposed sale and instead direct the Haffkine Corporation to begin or expand vaccine production. He maintained that such a move would ensure the continued availability of affordable vaccines while safeguarding a critical public health resource, reported PTI.
Established in 1899, the Haffkine Institute is among India’s oldest biomedical research institutions, engaged in research, training, and testing related to infectious diseases. The controversy surrounding the proposed sale has sparked a broader debate over public versus private control of essential healthcare assets.
(With inputs from PTI)
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