On February 26, 2023, Mansukh Mandaviya, the Minister of Health and Family Welfare of India, addresses the inaugural session of the Chintan Shivir on ‘Drugs: Quality Regulations & Enforcements.’ The conference aimed to bring together drug regulators and state health officials to discuss ways to strengthen the drug regulatory system of India.
During his speech, Mandaviya emphasized the need to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of drugs in India. He acknowledged the challenges that the country faces in regulating the pharmaceutical industry, given a large number of drug manufacturers and the diversity of products in the market. However, he stated that the government is committed to improving the regulatory framework and ensuring that all drugs meet the required standards.
Mandaviya announced several initiatives to strengthen the drug regulatory system in India. One of the key initiatives is the establishment of a National Drug Regulatory Authority (NDRA) to oversee drug regulation across the country. The NDRA will be responsible for setting standards for drug quality, safety, and efficacy, as well as enforcing regulations and conducting inspections of drug manufacturing facilities.
Mandaviya announced the creation of a centralized drug testing laboratory network to ensure that all drugs are tested to the same standards across the country. This laboratory network will be connected to the NDRA, which will have the authority to revoke licenses and take legal action against companies that fail to meet the required standards.
Mandaviya also emphasized the importance of increasing public awareness about the quality of drugs and their regulation. He stated that the government will launch a nationwide campaign to educate the public about the risks of using counterfeit or substandard drugs and the importance of buying drugs from licensed pharmacies.
The Minister further stressed the importance of cooperation between different government agencies and stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry to strengthen drug regulation in India. He called on all participants to work together towards a common goal of ensuring the availability of safe, effective, and affordable drugs for all.
Mansukh Mandaviya’s address at the Chintan Shivir on ‘Drugs: Quality Regulations & Enforcements’ highlights the government’s commitment to strengthening the drug regulatory system in India. With the establishment of the NDRA, centralized drug testing laboratory network, and public awareness campaigns, the government aims to ensure that all drugs in India meet the required standards for quality, safety, and efficacy.
