The Gujarat Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) is planning to send a three-point representation to the CDSCO, requesting them to make strategic changes in the present training module adopted by the centre for  effective delivery of services. The aim behind this move is to ensure world class training to all the Indian drug control officials about the regulatory requirements of the country which will help in the smooth functioning and harmonisation of good regulatory practices throughout the country.

Interestingly, though there is a programme that was initiated by the centre for training the newly recruited drug inspectors some years back, it was not effective enough to get the desired result due to irregularity and lack of professionalism in conducting the programme properly. The state FDCA stressed that it is essential for the government to take immediate steps that is focused on improving the present system so that the newly recruited officials are acquainted with all their respective duties.

According to Dr H G Koshia, commissioner, Gujarat FDCA, effective training is a very important aspect for proper implementation of regulatory practices as it will enable the FDA officials to have a greater understanding of their jobs and responsibilities. “Imparting proper training on how to conduct raid, draw samples, decipher the rules and regulation as given under the law, understanding the minutes of the duty is a very important aspect for any regulatory officer. However, it is unfortunate that in spite of the need for a well structured programme aimed at training the officials both new and the existing one we are lagging behind in this segment which structures the working of the whole regulatory system of the country.”

He pointed out that the government must provide an ideal platform that will enable the new entrants with opportunities to undergo training to develop their abilities to perform their duties. He said, “We need a training programme that is both functional and effective in delivering hands on training to all the regulatory officials unlike the present one. Understanding the need for the same we want to suggest and request to the government to adopt a strong and vigorous training regime throughout the country.”

In its representation, the FDCA has urged the government to create a new post at the centre specifically dedicated to look after the affairs of training the regulatory officials. As they believe that the creation of a separate post will ensure a well organised and responsible implementation of the training procedure in the system.

Dr Koshia insisted that for a far reaching and effective implementation it would be reasonable to conduct this training in the zonal offices which will be both time saving and affordable. “Most importantly, we want the government to take steps to ensure that the training programme is looked upon as a continuous process focused on sensitising not only the newly appointed officials but also re-educating and updating the experienced officials on the latest regulatory development,” he added.

With a view to ensure effective services in the absence of the training programme supported by the central government, the Gujarat FDCA has formulated a special training module to train the newly appointed drug inspectors on their expected duties. This training programme is either conducted in collaboration with the industry or at times by inviting other regulators from across the world to impart their skills and expertise in this area.

The state regulatory body wants the central government to adopt a similar idea at the centre as well so as to harmonise the training module throughout the country for effective delivery of services.