Officials directed to prepare Essential Drugs list: Sukhu

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has directed health department officials to prepare a new “Essential Drugs” list to ensure the availability of quality medicines for patients in Government health institutions. Presiding over a review meeting of the department on Tuesday evening, Sukhu said the new list would be reviewed by a high-powered committee.

“Moving toward direct procurement from manufacturers is not merely a cost-cutting measure, but a strategic move to eliminate middleman-related delays and ensure a more transparent supply chain. By bypassing intermediaries, the state aims to secure a consistent inventory of life-saving drugs for which necessary provisions will be made,” he said at the meeting.