Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:
(a) whether the Government proposes to revamp and establish new drug testing laboratory across the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State/UT-wise along with the funds allocated during the last three years and the current year; and
(c) the further steps taken/being taken by the Government to revamp the drug testing laboratories?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI FAGGEN SINGH KULASTE)
(a): The Government has approved a proposal for strengthening of drug regulatory system in the Country, both at the Central and State levels at a cost of Rs.1750 crore. Out of this, Rs. 900 crore is for strengthening of Central regulatory structures while Rs. 850 crore has been approved as the Central Government’s contribution for upgrading and strengthening the States’ Drug Regulatory System. One of the major components of the Scheme is to enhance the testing capacity of laboratories, both at the Central and State level, in terms of infrastructure and manpower as well as establishment of new laboratories.
(b): As this is a new scheme, proposals have been asked for from the States. Proposals have so far been received from 19 States, others are being reminded. No funds have so far been allotted to States.
(c): All the existing drug testing laboratories under Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) have been provided with new equipment and have since been accredited by National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL).
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