116 pharma firms face strict penalties over substandard drugs
Shimla: In a significant move aimed at maintaining drug quality standards, Himachal Pradesh's Drug Control Administration has taken strict action against 116 pharmaceutical companies for manufacturing substandard medicines.
This development comes as part of the state’s intensified enforcement of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, led by Health Minister Dr (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil.
During a recent review meeting with officials, Dr Shandil reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the production of affordable and quality medicines.
From January 2023 to October 2024, the administration conducted 142 inspections, jointly carried out by State Inspection Officers and Central Inspection Officers. As a result, action was taken against 116 pharmaceutical companies .
"Companies producing substandard medicines face strict penalties," said the Minister.
"Their manufacturing of the identified product is suspended for one to two months, and legal proceedings are initiated in the respective jurisdictions. Additionally, these companies are directed to review and rectify their manufacturing processes,” he added.
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Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s status as the pharmaceutical hub of India, Dr Shandil noted that the state accounts for 33 percent of the country’s medicine production.
According to a Health Ministry survey, the national percentage of substandard medicines stands at 3.16 percent. In comparison, Himachal Pradesh’s figure over the last three years is significantly lower at 1.22 percent, less than half the national average.
The Minister also informed that data on substandard medicines is regularly shared with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and made available on its website to ensure public awareness.
During the meeting, officials discussed the importance of stamping prescription slips to prevent the misuse of drugs for intoxication. This measure aims to curb the repeated purchase of medicines using the same prescription.
Dr Shandil expressed concern over drug abuse among children and emphasized the need for stringent measures to prevent the sale of medicines to minors without valid prescriptions. "Public awareness campaigns are critical to addressing this issue effectively," he added.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Health M. Sudha Devi, State Drug Controller Manish Kapoor and Drug Control Officers from various districts.
