Punjab Govt Sets Up Advisory Council, Warns Zero Tolerance on Spurious Drugs

During the discussion, Dr Singh highlighted the importance of rigorous testing—both of inputs and finished formulations—to prevent any compromise in public health. He noted that maintaining a clean record requires proactive steps, especially when national attention is focused on quality lapses discovered in other states. Pharma units were reminded that adherence to standard manufacturing protocols is crucial in ensuring safety and consumer trust.

Representatives from drug-manufacturing units also raised concerns about central regulatory policies and the operational challenges faced under evolving national drug-control frameworks. Responding to these issues, Dr Singh assured manufacturers that the Punjab government would take up their concerns with the Central Drug Authority to ensure fair consideration of industry needs while maintaining uncompromising quality norms.

To facilitate continuous industry-regulator dialogue, the minister announced the formation of a dedicated advisory council. He encouraged pharma companies to engage actively with the council and contribute suggestions aimed at strengthening the sector. Stressing that the state will follow a “zero-tolerance approach” toward substandard or spurious medicines, he urged units to reinforce systems in line with the expectations placed on them, reports The Times of India.