Date:22/12/2004 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/12/22/stories/2004122202641700.htm

Back `Drug affordability key issue for Govt'

Our Bureau

Hyderabad , Dec. 21

THE major concern for the Government in the drugs and pharma sector is to ensure supply of affordable medicines, especially with the implementation of the WTO regime from January.

It is, therefore, imperative that the development of the pharma sector be facilitated with determination. The mechanism for quality control, regulation and assurance has to be maintained, said Dr I.V. Subba Rao, Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Andhra Pradesh, at the concluding session of the two-day CII-GMP Summit here on Tuesday.

The Deputy Drugs Controller, Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, Dr M. Venkateswarulu, said the regulator has to transform into a facilitator in the pharma industry. All pharma companies must adhere to and comply with good manufacturing practices, if they have to be competitive and grab global opportunities.

Dr V.B. Malkar, Scientific Director, Taro Pharmaceuticals said India was being looked at as a hub for contract manufacturing. Hence, pharma companies need to position themselves with quality standards.