Kerala is set to launch a pioneering initiative, nPROUD (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs), to collect and scientifically dispose of expired and unused medicines, preventing environmental pollution, health risks, and antimicrobial resistance. The program, India’s first government-led initiative of its kind, will be inaugurated on February 22 in Kozhikode by Health Minister Veena George.

Key Highlights:
Objectives of nPROUD:

• Prevent expired medicines from contaminating soil and water bodies.

• Address the lack of proper disposal systems for unused drugs.

• Reduce health risks and antimicrobial resistance caused by improper medicine disposal.

How the Initiative Works:
Medicine Collection:

• Unused medicines will be collected from homes at scheduled intervals.

• Designated blue collection boxes will be placed in public areas for medicine disposal.

• Wholesale and retail pharmacies and clinics must bring their expired stock to assigned collection centers.

Scientific Disposal Process:

• Collected medicines will be processed at the Kerala Enviro Infrastructure Limited (KEIL) waste treatment plant, which is approved by the central and state environment departments.

• The project follows Biomedical Waste Management Act and Rules, ensuring eco-friendly and safe disposal.

Statewide Rollout in Phases:

• The project will initially be launched in Ulliyeri panchayat under Kozhikode Corporation.

• It will later be expanded across Kerala in phases.

• The initiative is supported by local bodies and Haritha Karma Sena members.

Statements from Officials:
Veena George, Health Minister, Kerala:
“Expired and unused medicines should not be carelessly discarded into the soil and water bodies. The Drugs Control Department has initiated this project because there are no proper systems in place for scientific disposal.”With nPROUD, Kerala is setting a national benchmark for safe medicine disposal, ensuring environmental protection and public health safety. The initiative is expected to inspire other states to implement similar programs, contributing to better waste management and reduced health hazards nationwide.