Gujarat Biotechnology University Reappoints Industry Veteran Sudhir Vaid
The Gujarat Biotechnology University (GBU), located near GIFT City, has reappointed Sudhir Vaid, Chairman and Managing Director of Concord Biotech Limited, as the Chairman of its Advisory Council. His new tenure will span three years, effective from October 14, 2025, or until further notice, whichever comes earlier.
The reappointment reflects the government’s confidence in Vaid’s expertise and longstanding contributions to India’s pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. GBU, established in 2018 under the Department of Science and Technology, was founded to advance cutting-edge biotechnology education, research, and innovation. The university’s Board of Governors is chaired by Dilip Sanghvi, Chairman and Managing Director of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, further reinforcing its strong industry-academic connect.
Vaid’s Extensive Industry Background
Sudhir Vaid brings decades of experience in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology with him. Before founding and leading Concord Biotech Limited, a globally recognized biopharmaceutical company, Vaid held prominent roles at some of India’s most respected pharmaceutical firms. His professional journey includes senior positions at Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited and Lupin Chemicals Limited. Additionally, he served as a consultant for Biocon India Limited, one of the leading biotechnology companies in Asia.
His leadership at Concord Biotech has been instrumental in positioning the company as a trusted name in producing fermentation-based APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients). With Vaid at the helm, Concord Biotech has expanded its global footprint, serving regulated markets across the United States, Europe, Japan, and beyond.
Vaid’s reappointment as Chairman of GBU’s Advisory Council highlights the institution’s commitment to aligning biotechnology education and research with industry and society's demands.
Strengthening Biotechnology Education in Gujarat
The Gujarat Biotechnology University plays a pivotal role in advancing biotechnology in India. With the guidance of industry stalwarts like Vaid and Sanghvi, the university aims to foster innovation, encourage research collaborations, and prepare a skilled workforce for the biotechnology sector.
By leveraging the expertise of industry leaders, GBU strives to create a robust ecosystem where academia, industry, and government work together. Vaid's reappointment ensures continuity in this mission, enabling the university to strengthen its programs, research outcomes, and collaborations with domestic and international institutions.
According to academic experts, such leadership appointments are critical for institutions like GBU, which aspire to become centers of excellence in biotechnology education and applied research. Vaid’s presence is expected to drive more industry partnerships, research investments, and global exposure for students and faculty members.
FSSAI Seizes 6.5 Tonnes of Adulterated Ghee in Rajkot
In another significant development from Gujarat, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has seized approximately 6,500 kilograms of adulterated ghee from a dairy unit in Rajkot. The seized stock, valued at around Rs 35 lakh, belonged to M/s Korova Milk Product Private Limited and was confiscated as part of a nationwide “Special Ghee Surveillance Drive.”
The crackdown followed an initial inspection, during which FSSAI collected ghee samples from the dairy unit and sent them for laboratory testing. The lab results revealed that the ghee was “sub-standard” and adulterated with vegetable fat, violating the Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. Such adulteration compromises product quality and poses significant health risks to consumers.
Failure to Comply and Follow-Up Action
After receiving the lab reports, FSSAI gave the Food Business Operator (FBO) one month to file an appeal by submitting samples to a referral laboratory. However, the FBO failed to exercise this option. Consequently, FSSAI conducted a follow-up inspection on August 20, during which all available food ingredients and finished goods were seized. Additional samples were collected and dispatched for further laboratory analysis.
In its official statement, FSSAI noted: “All available stocks of food ingredients and finished goods were seized. New samples were also collected and sent for further analysis. The Central Licensing Authority will take additional legal and regulatory action based on the final lab results.”
Safeguarding Consumer Health and Food Standards
The seizure highlights the proactive measures FSSAI undertakes to ensure food safety and consumer protection. Adulteration of essential food products like ghee undermines public health and consumer trust. By conducting special surveillance drives and imposing strict action against violators, the authority seeks to deter malpractice within the food industry.
Food safety experts emphasized that adulteration of ghee with cheaper substitutes such as vegetable fat affects taste and nutritional value and poses potential health hazards. Regular enforcement measures are crucial in protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of India’s food supply chain.
Conclusion
The recent developments from Gujarat showcase two distinct yet significant aspects of governance and industry oversight. On one hand, Sudhir Vaid's reappointment as Chairman of the Gujarat Biotechnology University’s Advisory Council reflects the state’s commitment to strengthening biotechnology education and fostering innovation. On the other hand, the FSSAI’s seizure of adulterated ghee in Rajkot underscores the importance of stringent food safety regulations to protect consumer health.
These events highlight Gujarat’s dual focus on advancing scientific progress while safeguarding public welfare. With strong leadership at educational institutions and vigilant monitoring of food standards, the state continues to set benchmarks in innovation and regulatory enforcement.
