The Himachal Pradesh High Court has instructed the state government to implement a QR code system on medications to improve transparency and ensure the quality of drugs available in the market. This QR code will include essential information like the production date, expiry date, manufacturing unit details, batch number, component specifics, and recommended usage period. The move aims to provide consumers with complete access to critical drug information directly from the packaging.
The directive was issued by a bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Satyen Vaidya, who highlighted the need for stringent quality control in drug manufacturing. Observing that existing barcodes often lack comprehensive information, the court has mandated both state and central governments to establish rigorous regulations concerning drug quality, manufacturer accountability, and licensing criteria.
In the hearing, Advocate General Anoop Ratan noted that the state government is preparing to issue an official notification on the court’s orders, scheduled for release on Wednesday. A status report was also presented by the Deputy Drug Controller, detailing the existing inspection framework. Presently, Himachal has 39 drug inspectors, 6 assistant inspectors, and one controller, though 5 inspector positions remain vacant. The court advised the government to consider appointing a full-time Drug Controller to ensure consistent quality control across pharmaceutical units.
Additionally, the court requested specific standards for licensing pharmaceutical companies and testing labs to ensure accountability. It also recommended a comprehensive registry for tracking responsible officials. The court underscored the need for strict sampling and testing protocols to prevent substandard drugs from reaching consumers, emphasizing public health safety.