Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has emphasised the Government's zero-tolerance policy towards substandard drugs and called upon the pharmaceutical industry to establish a self-regulatory body to uphold the standards of pharmaceutical products.
The Minister made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the 8th Global Pharmaceutical Quality Summit organized by the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA) in Mumbai. Highlighting India's reputation as the "Pharmacy of the World," which was solidified during the Covid-19 crisis, Minister Mandaviya emphasized the crucial role played by the Indian pharma industry. He praised their efforts in following government instructions and ensuring the production of essential medicines and vaccines to combat the pandemic.
The responsible approach of the industry, according to the Minister, enabled India to supply medicines and vaccines to over 150 countries, contributing significantly to global healthcare.
Minister Mandaviya also stressed the importance of maintaining high-quality standards in the pharmaceutical sector. While acknowledging that there may be instances where a few individuals compromise product quality, he affirmed the government's unwavering stance against such practices. He called upon the industry to establish a self-regulatory body dedicated to monitoring and upholding the quality of pharmaceutical products, ensuring that no compromises are made.
Sudarshan Jain, Secretary General of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, expressed the industry's commitment to providing quality-assured and affordable medicines worldwide.
He acknowledged India's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the country's emergence as a global leader in pharmaceutical production. Jain emphasized the need for continuous investments in quality systems, technology, and talent to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape.
The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance remains dedicated to making India a global benchmark for quality in the pharmaceutical sector.
The minister's statements come in the wake of recent incidents involving substandard products manufactured by Indian pharmaceutical companies. The government's swift action against 34 such firms underscores its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines. By encouraging self-regulation and maintaining high-quality standards, the industry aims to uphold India's reputation as a reliable provider of quality medicines on the global stag