Govt alert to drug misuse, abuse in country: Ramadoss

New Delhi, May 18 (UNI) The Government, alert to the possible misuse of pharmaceutical drugs, was constantly monitoring the situation in the country and would not allow anything detrimental to the health of the people, Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss today assured the Rajya Sabha.

Responding to a half-an-hour Discussion regarding 'Ban on Globally Discarded Drugs' -- raised by Congress member Santosh Bagrodia, the Minister said the Government proposed to set up, among other measures in this direction, a National Drug Authority very shortly.

Modelled on the US Federal Drug Authority, the proposed body -- acting as a watchdog -- would keep a close eye on drug usage in the country and frame guidelines for the same, the Minister said.

Meanwhile, the Pharmaco-Vigilance Committee continued to review monthly cases of drug usage in the country and monitored instances of misuse or abuse, he said.

Welcoming a suggestion by Bharatiya Janata Party member Shreegopal Vyas, Minister Ramadoss said he proposed organising a health camp for Members of Parliament during the Monsoon Session where they would not only undergo a complete health check but also be made aware about the benefits of the Indian System of Medicine and Yoga to keep healthy.

UNI DG RL HT1950