What are the next steps to ensure the quality of drugs in India?

Drug quality control is an essential aspect of ensuring that medicines are safe, effective, and of good quality. In India, the government has taken several steps to strengthen drug quality control and ensure that the medicines available in the market are safe for use.

Some of the initiatives undertaken by the Indian government include:

Setting up of the National Drug Authority (NDA): The NDA is responsible for regulating the quality, safety, and efficacy of drugs in India. It ensures that all drugs available in the market meet the required quality standards.

Strengthening of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO): The CDSCO is responsible for approving new drugs, monitoring their safety, and enforcing quality standards. The government has taken steps to strengthen the CDSCO by increasing its resources and expanding its operations.

Implementation of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP): The government has implemented GMP regulations to ensure that all drugs manufactured in India meet the required quality standards. This includes standards for manufacturing processes, equipment, and facilities.

Introduction of e-governance initiatives: The government has introduced several e-governance initiatives, such as the Online Drug Licensing System and the Sugam Portal, to streamline the drug regulatory process and improve transparency.

Moving forward, the government needs to continue to invest in drug quality control and ensure that the regulatory framework remains up-to-date and effective. This includes:

Strengthening the regulatory infrastructure: The government should invest in the infrastructure and resources necessary to regulate the drug industry effectively. This includes increasing the number of inspectors and upgrading laboratory facilities.

Fostering innovation: The government should encourage innovation in the drug industry by providing incentives for research and development and supporting the development of new drugs.

Enhancing international collaboration: The government should collaborate with other countries to share best practices and harmonize regulatory standards.

By taking these steps, India can continue to strengthen drug quality control and ensure that patients have access to safe and effective medicines. (Medical Device Commitee)(Amcham India)