Bridging Law, Ethics, and Healthcare Innovation
Nishad Gharat
Head of Legal
Shalina Healthcare
In a $10 trillion global healthcare sector that touches billions of lives, the role of legal experts often goes unnoticed, even though their work is at the heart of trust and safety. From tackling counterfeit drugs to navigating complex international regulations and safeguarding patient data, these challenges aren’t just technical—they’re deeply human. At the forefront of this critical mission is Nishad Gharat, Head of Legal at Shalina Healthcare, whose leadership and innovation have addressed these pressing issues and set a standard for excellence in this evolving industry. With over 17 years of experience, Nishad’s career reflects a consistent commitment to addressing critical legal challenges with precision and foresight. Starting with Esteemed IPR Lawyer MP Mirchandani, he developed expertise in intellectual property and litigation, skills that formed the backbone of his legal acumen. At Borosil Limited, Nishad broadened his focus to contract management and corporate legal strategy, navigating complex frameworks with a clear, strategic approach. Now, as Head of Legal at Shalina Healthcare, he addresses critical issues like regulatory compliance, anti-counterfeit initiatives, and cross-border legal operations, setting new benchmarks in healthcare law.In this exclusive Tradeflock feature, we explore Nishad Gharat’s remarkable journey and his insights into the legal intricacies reshaping India’s healthcare landscape.
How has your transition from corporate and legal practice to healthcare shaped your approach to legal challenges?
Stepping into healthcare was like moving from solving puzzles to safeguarding lives—it completely transformed my perspective. My corporate background taught me structure, and my legal practice honed my skills in tackling complex issues, but healthcare demanded more: a commitment to ethics, patient safety, and regulatory precision. Here, every decision carries weight beyond the boardroom, and that responsibility has reshaped how I approach legal challenges—with empathy, foresight, and a deep sense of purpose.
How do you manage international compliance and smooth operations, given Shalina Healthcare’s global sourcing from India and China?
To me, compliance isn’t a barrier—it’s a bridge to credibility. At Shalina Healthcare, balancing the company’s interests with regulatory demands starts with embedding compliance into our operations. ‘A strong compliance culture isn’t just about following rules; it’s about driving trust and sustainability.’ By proactively managing risks, collaborating with regulators and partners, and empowering our teams through training, we ensure ethical practices align with our business goals. This integrated approach allows us to protect our interests while upholding the integrity that defines us.
What excites you about the future of healthcare law, and how are you preparing for upcoming changes?
What drives me in my legal career is knowing that my work goes beyond contracts and compliance—it touches lives. ‘In healthcare, every legal decision has the power to impact patient safety and public trust.’ Whether it’s fighting counterfeit drugs, navigating complex regulations, or safeguarding intellectual property, each challenge is a chance to protect and serve. The ever-evolving nature of this industry keeps me inspired to learn, adapt, and push boundaries, knowing that every effort contributes to a greater purpose.
As Head of Legal, how do you balance protecting the company’s interests with ensuring compliance in a dynamic industry?
Counterfeit drugs are a hidden danger we can’t afford to ignore, and at Shalina Healthcare, we’ve taken a strong stand. From conducting over 30 successful raids to implementing cutting-edge track-and-trace technology, we’re tackling this issue head-on. Legal victories have not only disrupted offenders but allowed us to give back by supporting charitable trusts. For me, it’s simple: ‘Protecting patients starts with protecting the integrity of what they trust most—their medicine.
What drives you to excel in a legal career within the challenging and impactful healthcare sector?
Managing international operations at Shalina Healthcare is like conducting a symphony— precision and collaboration are key. ‘Strong partnerships and clear agreements are the foundation of seamless global operations.’ We draft detailed contracts that address quality, liability, and dispute resolution while relying on local legal experts to navigate regional regulations. Regular audits ensure our suppliers meet WHO and GMP standards, and advanced technology keeps our supply chain transparent. These strategies not only ensure compliance but also uphold the trust and quality we stand for.
From a legal perspective, what’s the key to a healthcare organisation’s long-term success in a competitive market?
The future of healthcare excites me because it’s where innovation meets responsibility. ‘With advancements like AI and personalised medicine, the legal landscape isn’t just adapting—it’s shaping the future of patient care.’ These breakthroughs bring incredible opportunities but also complex challenges in data protection, ethical AI, and cross-border regulations. To navigate this, I stay ahead of emerging legal frameworks, collaborate closely with tech teams, and advocate for harmonised global standards. Preparing for these changes means being part of a movement that ensures innovation serves patients ethically and effectively.
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