Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Mansukh Mandaviya, announced that stringent actions have been taken against 105 pharmaceutical companies following risk-based inspections and audits of their manufacturing plants. These actions were prompted by reports of several child deaths overseas linked to cough syrups produced in India. Read More Business News on our website.
Mandaviya revealed that out of the 137 firms inspected, production has been halted at 31 companies, while the product licenses of 50 firms have been revoked. Additionally, 73 firms have received show cause notices, and 21 firms have been issued warning letters. During a meeting with representatives from medium, small, and micro enterprises (MSME) in the pharmaceutical sector, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining the quality of drugs manufactured in India. To achieve this, specialized teams have been established to inspect drug manufacturing facilities.
Mandaviya stressed the importance of self-regulation among the MSME pharma companies involved in drug production in India. He urged them to prioritize drug quality and swiftly adopt good manufacturing processes (GMP) through self-regulation. The minister also disclosed the government’s phased plan to make Schedule M mandatory for all drug manufacturing units in the country. Schedule M outlines the GMP guidelines that these units must adhere to, aiming to ensure quality assurance and reduce compliance burdens.
During the meeting, Mandaviya underscored India’s global position in the pharmaceutical sector, which is attributed to the quality of its products. He emphasized the need for all necessary measures to strengthen India’s position in terms of value and quality.