In a decisive move to regulate pharmacy operations and eliminate the sale of banned drugs, Nagaland’s Department of Health & Family Welfare (H&FW) has launched an intensive inspection drive targeting pharmacies across Dimapur and Chümoukedima districts.Key Actions Underway
Health Minister P. Paiwang Konyak, addressing the media at the District Hospital Dimapur (DHD), highlighted significant issues discovered during inspections, including:

• Illegal drug sales: Some pharmacies were found selling drugs banned by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

• Unlicensed operations: Numerous pharmacies were operating without valid or updated licenses.

• Unqualified pharmacists: Several establishments employed unauthorized personnel instead of licensed pharmacists.

The Health Minister issued a stern warning: “Strict action will be taken against pharmacies violating health regulations, including immediate license suspension or cancellation.”Inspection Details
Deputy Drugs Controller Tiatoshi Amer, who also oversees licensing, provided further insights into the crackdown:

1. Banned Drugs: Pharmacies found selling ICMR-banned drugs will face immediate penalties, including license revocation.

2. License Checks: The drive is meticulously verifying the renewal status of licenses and compliance with qualifications for pharmacy operators.

3. Show-Cause Notices: Pharmacies operating without valid documentation have been issued notices requiring immediate renewal of their licenses or face permanent closure.

Impact of the Crackdown

• Suspended Licenses: The department has already suspended 49 pharmacy licenses.

• Ongoing Investigations: Further inspections are underway to ensure compliance across all pharmacies in Dimapur and neighboring districts.

• Strict Enforcement: Pharmacies found with illegal documents or employing unqualified personnel risk losing their licenses permanently.

Official Statement
Amer emphasized, “We have provided ample time for pharmacies to comply by employing qualified pharmacists. Those who fail to meet these requirements will face severe consequences.” He added that these measures aim to ensure that drug sales in the region are safe, legal, and conducted by authorized professionals.
This initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that pharmacy operations adhere to national regulations.