As rapid 10-minute medicine delivery services gain momentum across Indian cities, the government is now tightening its grip on e-pharmacy platforms. Growing concerns over unverified prescriptions, age verification lapses, and unregulated dark stores have pushed authorities to propose new regulations, potentially changing the future of online medicine delivery in India.

Key highlights

New scrutiny for 10–60 minute medicine deliveries

• Rapid delivery platforms like PhonePe’s Pincode, Davaindia, and Zeelab Pharmacy have launched 10–60 minute medicine delivery services in major metros.

• These services operate using hyperlocal models or “dark stores” similar to quick-commerce grocery chains.

Government to tighten online pharmacy regulations

• The Health Ministry is developing a new legal framework as the existing Drugs and Cosmetics Act doesn’t specifically govern online pharmacies.

• The Drugs Technical Advisory Board may also form a sub-committee to consider rolling back the doorstep delivery allowance made during COVID-19.

Concerns over prescription and safety compliance

• Increasing complaints around lack of verified prescriptions, hygiene issues in dark stores, and age-gating failures have alarmed regulators.

• Maharashtra FDA and FSSAI have already cracked down on hygiene violations in grocery dark stores, prompting similar scrutiny in the medicine delivery space.

Industry pushback from chemist associations

• The All-India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), representing over 1.2 million members, has demanded a rollback of doorstep delivery allowances.

• AIOCD argues that the emergency measures allowed during the pandemic are no longer valid and have filed a challenge in the Delhi High Court.

e-Pharmacy market potential remains strong

• CRISIL estimates e-pharmacies contribute just 3–5% of India’s ₹2.4 lakh crore pharmacy market, compared to 22–25% in developed countries.

• The sector is expected to grow with the addition of wellness products, high-margin medical equipment, and increased online consumer adoption.

As the government moves to regulate online pharmacy delivery services more tightly, platforms like PharmEasy, Tata 1mg, and Netmeds may face new compliance hurdles. While India’s e-pharmacy sector remains underpenetrated, stricter rules may bring needed transparency and safety to support long-term, sustainable growth.