Enthused by the Economic Survey 2008-09 which proposed to decontrol the prices of drugs in the country, the Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (IDMA) has sought the help of the law makers to decontrol the prices of drugs to fulfil the government's objective of 'Health for All'.
In a memorandum sent to all the MPs, IDMA president NR Munjal said that the matured and responsible behaviour of the Indian pharmaceutical industry has not only catered to the poor and the needy patients of our country but has also made a name for itself in the global market. "It is only because of our competitive pricing and expertise in manufacturing quality medicines that our Industry ranks third in volume and 14th in value in the World, with 10 per cent of world's production but only 1.5 per cent of value!," Munjal said.
The developing world, including the least developed countries, are also accepting the fact that it is only Indian pharma industry that can provide quality drugs at affordable prices. Despite this, the pharmaceutical industry in India is under price control, Munjal expressed surprise.
"Such an industry should be supported and protected from harm for the benefit of our people and the poor patients in the world. We are willing to work closely with the Government to protect the interest of the national sector pharmaceutical industry and the honour and goodwill that India commands in the world. We seek your whole hearted support in encouraging us to meet our objective of supplying low cost affordable and quality medicines to one and all," Munjal said.