Question : SETTING UP OF NEW BODY FOR PROMOTION OF DRUGS

(a) whether the Union Government has any proposal for setting up of new Body to streamline the manufacture, licensing, import, storage, promotion and use of drugs;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether there is also a proposal to set up Zonal Offices for such Body;

(d) if so, the time by which the Body is likely to be set up;

(e) whether there is lack of adequate staff in the Drug Control Division;

(f) if so, the action taken by the Government thereon; and

(g) if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (DR. ANBUMANI RAMADOSS)

(a) & (b) The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has introduced a Bill in the Rajya Sabha for setting up of Central Drug Authority of India   to upgrade National Regulatory system for drugs and cosmetics and providing technical vision and policy direction in respect of quality of drugs marketed in the country. The authority would have ten main divisions at Head Quarter to discharge functions as envisaged under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. The centralization of grant of manufacturing licenses is proposed to be done in a phased manner.

(c) Yes, Sir.

(d)  The Central Drug Authority of India will come into existence after the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 is amended by the Parliament as proposed.

(e) Yes, Sir.

(f) The infrastructure for regulating Drug Control will be suitably augmented under the authority to discharge functions assigned under the Drug and Cosmetic Act for regulating quality of drugs marketed in the country.

(g) Does not arise.