Novartis India (NIL) shares zoomed 20% within an hour of market opening Friday (February 20, 2026) on the back of parent Novartis AG decision to sell its entire 70.68% holding, in the listed arm, to a consortium of investors for nearly ₹1,446 crore. Novartis India shares, which closed on the BSE at ₹830.45 each on Thursday (February 19), soared 20% to touch ₹996.50 each. Novartis AG had two years ago conveyed its intent to undertake a strategic review in NIL to unlock the value of its shareholding. Continue presence through Novartis HealthcareNovartis will continue its presence in India through Novartis Healthcare (NHPL), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Novartis group in India. The transfer of Novartis AG shareholding in NIL will not impact Novartis Healthcare operations, the company said.

Source: The Hindu February 20, 2026 03:55 UTC