To cut import, govt to boost production of drug ingredient

To cut import, govt to boost production of drug ingredient

1. Department of pharmaceuticals has charted out a plan to boost domestic local manufacturing of Active Pharmaceutical ingredients(API) in order to reduce its import dependence on China.
2. Bulk drugs or APIs are the active raw materials used in medicines to give them their therapeutic effect.More than 75% of India’s bulk drug imports come from China.
3. The plan includes: (a) Developement of clusters (b) Incentives to promote indigenous manufacturing (c) Strengthen regulatory mechanism (d) Higher fee structure to reduce import and (e) Single window clearance for setting up manufacturing plant.
4. Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is the national regulatory body for pharmaceuticals and medical devices in India.Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) is an organ of the CDSCO which is responsible for approving and licensing of drugs and medical devices in India.