English 
Union Health Minister J P Nadda Reviews Drug, Cosmetic, and Medical Device Regulations
Union Health Minister Shri J P Nadda conducted a high-level review meeting on the regulation of drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices, emphasizing India’s goal to become a global leader in drug regulation. The meeting included key figures such as Health Secretary Shri Apurva Chandra and Drugs Controller General of India Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi.
Shri Nadda highlighted the need for a world-class regulatory framework to uphold India’s reputation as the “Pharmacy of the World.” He called for the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to develop a roadmap with specific timelines aimed at achieving global standards in regulatory activities.
Key Highlights:
- Focus on Transparency: The Minister stressed the importance of transparency within CDSCO and the drugs and medical devices industry to meet global quality standards.
- Continuous Dialogue: Nadda emphasized the need for ongoing communication with the pharmaceutical and medical devices sectors to understand their challenges and ensure compliance with quality expectations.
- Support for MSMEs: Addressing the issues faced by Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), he called for initiatives to bolster their capacity while ensuring they meet regulatory standards.
- Collaboration with States: The Union Minister underscored the significance of working closely with state governments to enhance their regulatory skills and align them with central quality standards, particularly in light of the upgraded Good Manufacturing Practices.
Future Plans:
The Minister was briefed on CDSCO’s achievements and future plans, including the progress of the Rs. 850 crore scheme launched in 2016 to strengthen the state drug regulatory system. Nadda noted the importance of a collaborative approach between central and state regulatory bodies to create a seamless regulatory environment.
In conclusion, Shri Nadda’s review aims to set India on a path toward achieving international regulatory standards, ensuring the highest quality in the production and export of drugs and medical devices.
