As demand for quality drugs increases, lack of funds hampers safety revamp

Drug controllers state that cold chain facilities are not available, making seizure of drugs difficult

As the need for good quality drugs is growing in India, states are grappling with the lack of adequate manpower and other facilities that can make inspections easier. Until recently, the Andhra Pradesh drug controller did not even have an office to operate from, according to a submission of the director-general of the Drug Controller Administration of Andhra Pradesh.

In a recent drug consultative committee meeting, drug controllers from various states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh pointed out that they were finding it difficult to strengthen the regulatory system as funds were not being released. These states