No Eligible Successor: Centre Clarifies DCGI's Contractual Reappointment

The government emphasized that Dr Raghuvanshi’s leadership remains crucial for ongoing regulatory reforms at the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). The memo noted, “Under his able leadership, substantial reforms have been brought out in CDSCO. Further regulatory reforms are being undertaken in CDSCO, which include global benchmarking, automation of the regulatory processes, and alignment with global standards.”

The memo also warned that a leadership gap would hinder India’s efforts to create a “world-class pharmaceutical ecosystem”, including developments in CAR-T therapies and gene-based treatments.

Medical Dialogues team had earlier reported that although 18 candidates have applied for the position since August 2024, none were found eligible or suitable at this stage. Many of the candidates had unresolved issues or lacked sufficient seniority and regulatory experience.

Also Read: Dr Raghuvanshi To Continue as DCGI Amidst Search For Successor; 18 Candidates Vie For Top Post

“The memo stated that several candidates were currently not eligible to take charge due to certain issues on the personal or legal front,” the report added.

News18 reports that the government has indicated it requires “considerable time” to assess applicants and finalize names for submission to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).