Drug regulators from Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Punjab have formed an interstate coordination committee to combat the rising menace of counterfeit and psychotropic drugs. Hosted by Himachal Pradesh’s DCA, the initiative aims to improve inter-state intelligence sharing, joint raids, and enforcement of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act and NDPS Act.

Key highlights

Interstate coordination

• Committee to enable real-time information exchange and conduct joint inspections across states.

• Focus on preventing illegal distribution of psychotropic drugs and counterfeit medicines.

Central portal proposal

• Regulators requested a ‘One Nation–One Dedicated Portal’ for tracking drug movement from manufacturers to retail.

• Portal to be accessible to drug regulators, police, NCB, and excise authorities.

Proactive enforcement

• Joint surprise inspections at licensed manufacturing, wholesale, and retail points.

• Internal SOPs to ensure quick communication on illegal activity and strengthen enforcement.

• Stricter legal action against offenders involved in diversion of psychotropic or spurious drugs.

  
  

The interstate committee represents a major step toward a coordinated regulatory response in northern India. By combining collaboration, technology, and enforcement, the initiative aims to create a safer pharmaceutical supply chain, protect public health, and serve as a model for other regions.