The company is exploring collaborative research options. It will launch its entire research portfolio in the country, said Managing Director Jürgen Beck.

"We have created a small but adequate marketing and supply chain network. At the same time, we continue our successful relationship with our Indian partner Zydus Cadila for marketing and distribution of our well-known flagship brands such as Buscopan, Dulcolax and other products," Beck said. He declined to provide the size of the company's Indian business.

In an email interview, Beck said the focus of their India operations is on the cardio-vascular disease (CVD) segment. He also hinted that a new CVD product from its international portfolio will be launched in India by the year-end.

"We are providing physicians and patients innovative treatment options for life-threatening conditions... we have launched Aggrenox (dipyridamole ASA) indicated to reduce the risk of stroke in patients who have had transient ischaemia of the brain or completed ischaemic stroke due to thrombosis," Beck said.

Boehringer has adopted a partnership approach in India to make best use of the experience and expertise of the Indian firms regarding services and processes.

"We have no manufacturing or research unit in India of our own. We are running and evaluating further projects in pharmaceutical development, medicinal chemistry and manufacturing in collaboration with Indian companies. So far, our expectations have been mostly met and we are keen to explore further opportunities with Indian partners," Beck said.

Headquartered in Ingelheim (Germany), Boehringer is one of the world's 20 leading pharmaceutical companies.

Globally, it operates through 135 affiliates in 47 countries and 39,800 employees. Founded in 1885, the family-owned company spends one-fifth of its net sales on R&D.