State Government Ensures Availability of Quality Medicines for Citizens: Health Minister

Health Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, during a review meeting with the officers of the Drug Control Administration, reiterated the state government’s dedication to providing citizens with affordable and high-quality medicines. He stressed the effective implementation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act to uphold strict medicine quality standards.

From January 2023 to October 2024, the Drug Control Administration conducted 142 inspections, collaborating with both State and Central Inspection Officers. These efforts led to actions against 116 pharmaceutical companies for producing substandard medicines. The Minister emphasized that such companies face strict penalties, including suspensions of one to two months for manufacturing the flagged product, alongside legal proceedings. They are also mandated to reassess and improve their manufacturing practices.

Himachal Pradesh, known as the pharmaceutical hub of India, contributes 33% of the country’s medicine production. Dr. Shandil highlighted that the state’s substandard medicine rate over the last three years is 1.22%, significantly lower than the national average of 3.16%, as per a Health Ministry survey. Data on such medicines is consistently shared with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and made publicly accessible to enhance transparency.

To curb drug misuse, the meeting discussed implementing stamped prescription slips, preventing repeated purchases using the same prescription, and restricting the sale of medicines to minors without valid prescriptions. The Minister expressed concern over rising drug abuse among children and emphasized the importance of public awareness campaigns to combat this issue effectively.

Secretary Health M. Sudha Devi, State Drug Controller Manish Kapoor, and Drug Control Officers from various districts attended the meeting, contributing valuable insights and discussing strategies for better enforcement.

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