In recognition of the importance of consumer safety from counterfeit medicines, the Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI) will organise a one-day seminar on 'Consumer Safety Through Anti-Counterfeiting Technologies - A Pharmaceutical Perspective' to portray the latest developments in anti-counterfeiting technologies. The seminar is being organized in collaboration with PAC Med Biotech, Bilcare and Associated Capsules Group on July 3, 2009 at the Scitech Centre, Jogeshwari (West), Mumbai.

Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) Dr Surinder Singh will deliver the keynote address at the seminar while National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) chairman Dr Anjan K Banerjee will deliver the special address. OPPI chairman Dr Ranga Iyer will deliver the inaugural address.

The pharmaceutical industry in India is now widely recognized as a reliable source of quality medicines at affordable prices. However, counterfeit medicines represent an unacceptable risk to patient safety while at the same time jeopardizing the brand owner's image, reputation, income, and in some cases, even their economic viability. It is therefore imperative that every manufacturer of prescription and OTC medicines implements effective measures that make counterfeiting difficult and facilitates detection and interdiction. Indian pharmaceutical companies in that process will be able to protect their products and customers from the risks of counterfeiting.

The seminar will be of special interest to executives from technical, quality, sales & marketing, legal, and supply chain departments.

OPPI has been in forefront in fighting the menace of spurious drugs and has actively supported the government to develop policies for controlling this serious problem. So, the OPPI has invited for the seminar two important stakeholders from the government, the DCGI and NPPA chairman, for their perspectives in anti-counterfeiting technologies. Additionally, there will be an array of distinguished national and international speakers with recognized expertise in anti-counterfeiting technologies.