The Kerala State Drugs Control Department has launched an ambitious new digital tool called MedWatch, aimed at empowering citizens to verify the authenticity and quality of medicines they buy from pharmacies. This initiative aligns with India’s broader push towards safer, tech-enabled healthcare.

Key highlights

Real-time verification of medicines

• MedWatch will allow users to verify the authenticity of medicines through a mobile app.

• The app will integrate with pharmacy APIs and payment systems for a seamless experience.

Curbing counterfeit drugs

• The app is designed to help curb the distribution of counterfeit or substandard medications.

• The move follows increased concern over drug safety and growing digital healthcare fraud.

Part of India’s digital health push

• Follows trends like Aadhaar-based authentication in medical colleges and cloud tech expansion.

• India’s healthcare cloud market is projected to reach $20.23 billion by 2034.

Security and compliance focus

• Developers are focusing on AI integration, healthcare-specific workflows, and compliance standards.

• The app must meet high security benchmarks amid nationwide cybersecurity strengthening.

With MedWatch, Kerala is taking a significant step toward safer and smarter public health. The app’s launch not only addresses the growing threat of counterfeit medicines but also paves the way for wider digital adoption in India’s healthcare infrastructure.