Drug Body Seeks Octroi Exemption

The Maharashtra State Chemist and Druggist Association (MSCDA), the apex body of over 35,000 drug retailers and wholesalers, has demanded exemption of cess and octroi duty on medicines in the state. The association has threatened to go on strike if their plea is not heard.

The state government has approved reintroduction of cess and octroi in municipal areas. While the levies are expected to be in the range of 1-3 per cent, the date of implementation not known yet.

The association has demanded the exclusion of medicines from the purview of such levies. According to the association, the move will lead to an unnecessary increase in drug prices.

 

JS Shinde, president of MSCDA, said,