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Source– This post is based on the article “Draft National Pharmacy Commission Bill released” published in “The Hindu” on 20th November 2023.
Why in the News?
The Union Health Ministry has sought comments from the general public on the proposed National Pharmacy Commission Bill, 2023.
What is National Pharmacy Commission Bill, 2023?
| Prepared by | Union Ministry of Health and Family welfare. |
| Objective | To repeal the Pharmacy Act of 1948 and replace the Pharmacy Council of India with a national commission. |
| Other key provisions in the bill | 1. National Pharmacy Commission-The head office of the commission shall be at New Delhi. Composition– It shall consists of a Chairperson, thirteen ex officio Members and Fourteen part- time members. 2. Comprehensive pharmacy education system– To provide for a pharmacy education system that improves access to quality and affordable pharmacy or pharmaceutical education, ensures availability of adequate and high quality pharmacy professionals in all parts of the country that promotes equitable and universal healthcare to all citizens. 3. Adoption of latest researches- The proposed Bill encourages pharmacy professionals to adopt latest pharmacy research in their work and to contribute to research. 4. Periodic and transparent assessment-It calls for a periodic and transparent assessment of pharmacy institutions, and enforcing high ethical standards in all aspects of pharmacy services. 5. National Pharmacy Register- The Pharmacy Ethics and Registration Board will maintain a National Pharmacy Register which will have details of pharmacy professionals to ensure transparency. 6. Grievance redressal mechanism- It provides for an effective grievance redressal mechanism |
What is the Pharmacy Council of India?
1. The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) is a statutory body, established under the Pharmacy Act, 1948.
2. It functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
3. It is constituted by the central government every five years.
4. Objective
-To prescribe the minimum standard of education required for qualifying as a pharmacist.
– To regulate the profession and practice of pharmacy.
UPSC Syllabus- Polity and Nation (Bills & Acts)
