Centre moves to tighten drug sale oversight with CCTV mandate
New Delhi, September 17: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed amendments to the Drugs Rules 1945, aiming to make CCTV installation mandatory at all medical stores to strengthen oversight of Schedule H, H1, and X drug sales, enhancing transparency and accountability in distribution.
According to the proposal, CCTV surveillance is being included as an additional regulatory safeguard due to concerns regarding unauthorized access to banned drugs and sale without a valid prescription.
This proposal was first discussed in the Claims Consideration Committee and then sent to the members of the Drug Technical Advisory Board for consideration. After deliberations, the board recommended approval of the proposal.
On Thursday, a ministry official said the amendments are expected to strengthen oversight of the sale and distribution of Schedule H and X drugs once implemented. They may also help prevent unauthorized access and sale of these drugs without a valid prescription.
The CCTV system is also expected to increase transparency and accountability in the drug supply chain and strengthen public health safety measures.
The ministry has sought objections and suggestions from stakeholders and the public on the proposed amendments. Suggestions and objections can be sent to the Under Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
