IPA Flags Alarming Delays in Pharmacist Registration, Seeks Delhi Govt's Immediate Intervention

In a formal representation dated 20 January 2026, addressed to the Hon’ble Health Minister, Department of Health & Family Welfare, Government of NCT of Delhi, the IPA highlighted that a large number of duly qualified pharmacists have been waiting for registration for several months. In the absence of registration, these pharmacists are legally barred from employment, forcing hundreds—many from economically weaker sections—to remain unemployed. The association noted that the delay has resulted in severe financial hardship, loss of dignity, and mental stress for young professionals, with several families depending solely on their income, making the situation even more distressing.

The IPA emphasised that pharmacists are a critical pillar of the healthcare system and stated that such prolonged administrative delays not only jeopardise the livelihoods of qualified professionals but also adversely impact healthcare delivery by creating an artificial shortage of registered pharmacists in Delhi.

Highlighting the seriousness and urgency of the issue, the IPA has requested immediate intervention from the Delhi government and recommended a set of time-bound and structural measures to address the crisis. These include the immediate appointment of a full-time Registrar at the Delhi Pharmacy Council to ensure accountability, continuity, and efficient administration. At present, the additional charge of Registrar is reportedly being handled by the Joint Director (Planning).

The association further called for the appointment of a competent Pharmacy Officer from the Health Department, Government of Delhi, as Registrar or Assistant Registrar, until a permanent arrangement is made, to strengthen decision-making and expedite pending work. Another key recommendation is the organisation of special registration drives, including continuous on-site registration camps at the Delhi Pharmacy Council office, supported by additional clerical, technical, and verification staff.

In addition, the IPA has sought complete clearance of all pending registration applications within a fixed timeframe of one month, through a written government directive and a regular monitoring mechanism. The association also stressed the need for digitisation and simplification of the registration workflow, including online tracking of application status, to ensure transparency and prevent future backlogs. It further recommended periodic review meetings by the Health Department to monitor pendency, assess the performance of the Council, and ensure compliance with timelines.

The Indian Pharmacist Association expressed confidence that timely implementation of these measures would provide immediate relief to thousands of unemployed pharmacists, restore faith in the regulatory system, and strengthen Delhi’s healthcare workforce.

According to the Indian Pharmacist Association, the matter warrants urgent consideration in the larger public interest, and prompt, compassionate action by the government would help address both professional hardship and systemic gaps in the regulatory process.

The association has conveyed its anticipation of swift and effective intervention by the Delhi government to resolve the long-pending issue of pharmacist registration delays.