IBI suggests an independent Drug Authority

New Delhi, Aug 20 (UNI) The Indian Biotechnology Industry (IBI) has suggested that the proposed new Drug Authority should be an independent statutory body on the lines of TRAI and IRDA, and adequately staffed with trained scientists.

It also suggested that a Scientific Advisory board be created for better functioning.

A new Drug Authority is being considered by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on the lines of FDA of the US.

The Industry representatives have met the Indian Sub-Group on Clinical Research and Transfer of Biomaterials under the Indo-US Joint Industry Working Group on Biotechnology under the aegis of FICCI.

IBI also called for adoption of special procedures for speedy transfer and early clearance for perishable biological material through a single window clearance by the Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI).

On the issue of Service Tax for clinical research, the industry suggested the government to exempt it from service tax.

They also expressed concern at the 37 per cent duty on instruments which makes R&D more expensive and suggested that no excise duty be charged on the equipments.

On the cost of chemicals and reagents sold by the US companies which is up to 200 per cent higher than in the US, they suggested the government to provide relief up to Rs 1 crore to Indian companies for import of lab equipments.

UNI SBA YA BD2005