Centre undertakes regular assessments to monitor Anti-TB drugs Stock: MoS Health

The Minister was responding to the questions raised by Shri Manickam Tagore B who sought details on whether the country is experiencing a shortage of drugs essential for treating drug-sensitive tuberculosis (DS-TB) and if so, the details thereof; whether an uninterrupted supply of quality assured anti-TB drugs is acknowledge as an essential component of its DOTS strategy and if so, the details thereof.

He questioned whether the shortage of anti-TB drugs leads to a situation of treatment interruption and a very high risk of developing resistance in the country and if so, the details thereof; whether the Government has received representations in this regard from the activists working on eradication of TB in the country and if so, the details thereof; and the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government to remove the shortage of anti-TB drugs?

While addressing the questions, MoS Health Patel answered that the adequate availability and uninterrupted supply of anti-TB drugs are vital components of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP). The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) conducts regular assessments to monitor stock levels across states /UTs. Release Orders / Transfers Orders are issued routinely from central level to the states and UTs to replenish the stock position of anti-TB drugs.

Additionally, States and UTs have been equipped with resources under NHM for local procurement of anti-tuberculosis drugs in limited quantities, to address any emergent needs promptly. Central TB Division of MoHFW receives representations from citizens informing about possible shortages. It takes prompt action by releasing a central stock of drugs or re-allocating drugs, inter-state / intra-state in consultation with the State concerned, she further informed.