India must develop a world-class regulatory framework for drugs, cosmetics and medical devices in keeping with its reputation as the “pharmacy of the world”, according to Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda.

During a review meeting with India’s apex drug regulatory board and key officials of the Health Ministry, Nadda stressed the importance of preparing a roadmap by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to achieve global standards.

He highlighted that India’s position as a leading producer and exporter of medicines requires “system-based upgradation” focusing on synergy, technological advancement and visionary approach.

He emphasised that the system should ensure high quality standards for drugs and pharmaceuticals being exported.

He said that transparency in CDSCO’s processes is important to reach global standards.

“Our focus should be on transparency of processes in CDSCO and the pharmaceutical and medical devices industry,” he said during a meeting attended by Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra and Drugs Controller General of India Dr Rajiv Singh Raghuvanshi.

The Health Minister called for continuous dialogue between CDSCO and the pharmaceutical and medical devices industry to understand their problems and support them in meeting quality expectations.

He said, “Our focus should be on developing mechanisms that ensure ease of doing business for the pharmaceutical industry within the regulatory requirements. For this, CDSCO needs to become a user-friendly organisation with state-of-the-art facilities at par with global standards.”

Discussing the challenges faced by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector in meeting quality standards, Nadda encouraged officials to learn about the problems faced by the sector and help them improve their product quality while meeting regulatory standards.

During the meeting, he was also briefed on the progress of the scheme to strengthen the State Drug Regulatory System, which has a budget of Rs 850 crore and was launched in 2016 during his previous tenure.

Nadda stressed the importance of working together with the states to enhance their skills and capabilities and bring them in line with the quality standards of the Central Government.