NPPA controls prices of life saving drugs: Govt

New Delhi, May 4: The Government today informed the Rajya Sabha that the prices of 74 bulk drugs specified in the First Schedule of the Drugs (Price Control) Order, 1995 (DPCO,95) and the formulations based thereon are controlled in accordance with the provisions of the DPCO, 95 by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA).

Minister of State in the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers B K Handique said, in a written reply, that in case of any overcharging, action for recovery or overcharged amount is taken by NPPA. Hence, prices of medicines under price control have been effectively controlled and kept low.

The DPCO, 95 does not distinguish between life saving and other drugs. There are no specific norms or guidelines to determine as to which drug can be classified as life saving drugs, he said and added that every drug in general is considered useful in saving and prolonging life.

On the closed pharma units, the Minister said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has reported that information about closure of Pharma units State wise is not centrally maintained.

However, Pharma companies, including SSI units are required to comply with the requirements of Schedule 'M' of Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 with effect from July 1, 2005.

No adverse effect on availabillity of cheaper drugs and medicines for common man in the country has come to the notice of this Department, he added.

Regarding non-availablity of fertilizers to UP farmers, Mr Handique said movement and distribution of only 50 per cent of the indigenous production of Urea is under the control of the Government. All other fertilzers like DAP and MOP are decontrolled fertilizers and the availability of these fertilizers depends upon the market forces of demand and supply.

During Rabi 2006-07, the availability of Urea in Uttar Pradesh was more than the assessed demand. Distribution and movement of fertilizers within the State is the responsibility of the State Government.

UNI