India Needs World-Class Regulatory Framework to Solidify 'Pharmacy of the World' Status

Union Health Minister JP Nadda stated on Wednesday that India requires a world-class regulatory framework to uphold its global standing as the 'Pharmacy of the World'. Nadda mentioned that for India to lead in drug regulation, it needs a system that matches its operational scale and meets international expectations.

The high-level review meeting saw the presence of Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra, Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, and senior officers from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and the Union Health Ministry. Nadda called for the CDSCO to develop a roadmap with timelines to reach global standards in its mandated activities, emphasizing a systems-based approach and the importance of transparency.

Nadda underscored that maintaining high standards for drug exports is crucial. He emphasized the need for the CDSCO to be a user-friendly organization that supports the industry, particularly the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), in meeting regulatory standards. The minister was briefed on CDSCO's activities, achievements, and challenges, and he highlighted the need for better coordination between central and state regulatory bodies to enhance capacities and align quality standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)