In 2023-24, around 2,988 drug samples were declared ‘not of standard quality’ while 282 drug samples were found to be spurious or adulterated.
New Delhi: A Parliamentary panel is set to evaluate the performance of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in tackling the sale of counterfeit and substandard medicines. This review comes amid rising concerns over the circulation of fake drugs in the market.
Representatives from the Department of Pharmaceuticals and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, along with CDSCO officials, will provide a briefing aimed at assessing regulatory measures for controlling spurious drugs.
Zero Tolerance Policy
The government maintains a zero tolerance policy against counterfeit and substandard medications. The CDSCO, in collaboration with state authorities, is committed to combatting the issue to protect consumer interests.
Recent Actions
Recently, the CDSCO, in partnership with the West Bengal government, seized a substantial quantity of suspected spurious anti-cancer and anti-diabetic drugs. Offenders are being prosecuted under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Mandatory QR Codes
In 2023, the government mandated that every Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) manufactured or imported in India carries a Quick Response (QR) code on its label. This initiative facilitates tracking and tracing of drugs, ensuring quality control.
According to government data, in the fiscal year 2023-24, 2,988 drug samples were deemed ‘not of standard quality,’ and 282 samples were identified as spurious or adulterated. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about their medications.
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