Centre to initiate training for nationwide survey designed by the National Institute of Biologicals (NIB) through an effective plan involving different spectrum of stakeholders may generate India’s own indigenous data on spurious and NSQ drugs. During a high level DCC meeting that was recently concluded in Delhi, it was unanimously agreed by all to actively involve the stakeholders like NGOs, pharma cos, medical representatives, hospitals, consumer representatives, chemist and druggist etc. for broader results.

It is understood that the government is in the last leg of finalising the modalities to train the stakeholders to effectively handle the mammoth task expertly. Apart from finalising the process of starting the survey the Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) meeting also identified chemist shops, fast moving brands in the market, along with key areas and challenges to overcome.

Interestingly, this will be done through active involvement and support of the CDSCO and the state drug controllers, wherein they will train and help the stakeholders in understanding and contributing to the countries first the meticulously planned survey. The CDSCO formulated the survey plan in consultation with NIB for conducting a scientific study on the extent of problems of spurious drugs and drugs not of standard quality (NSQ).

Through this joint effort between the state and the centre, India will now be able to project a clear statistics on spurious drugs, thus clarifying India's stand on the same with scientific evidence.

Dr H G Koshia, commissioner, Gujarat Food & Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) informed that the government is yet to decide a date to roll out this massive study in a phased manner. However, he said that thing is already in place to initiate the training of the stakeholders so that all are prepared to act on the center’s direction.

The issue of spurious and NSQ drugs is a grave cause of concern affecting not only the health of the patients at large, but also the reputation of the country. This survey will help the facts to be put in plan, further enhancing and clearing the position of Indian pharma industry globally, while reassuring and reconfirming the confidence in Indian regulators as well,” Dr Koshia added.