Lucknow. New guidelines have been issued regarding drug and pharmaceutical business in Uttar Pradesh. The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has made it clear that now licenses for new medical stores in residential buildings will not be given. Apart from this, it has been made mandatory for any new license to attach geotagged photos along with the inspection report of the shops. Its purpose is to certify the existence of the establishment in digital form.

Action on illegal sale of codeine and NDPS medicines

FSDA Commissioner Roshan Jacob issued this order after irregularities came to light in the illegal trade of NDPS category and codeine containing drugs. The Commissioner has instructed all the District Magistrates to keep a strict vigil on the illegal sale and storage of these medicines.

During investigation it was discovered that many of the drugstores did not actually exist. At some places only tables and chairs were found, where only the work of making bills was taking place. The arrangement for storage of medicines in many shops was also not found proper.

License cancellation order

In view of these lapses, the Commissioner has directed that the licenses of shops which do not have storage of medicines or do not have valid records of sale, should be canceled immediately. If licensees giving incomplete records do not provide correct information within the stipulated time, their licenses will also be cancelled. Also, applicants who have a registered pharmacist will be given license on priority basis. The drug inspector will verify the applicants on the basis of experience certificate.

Impact on teenagers and youth

The Commissioner said that drugs containing NDPS and codeine are being consumed illegally, especially by teenagers and youth for intoxication. This is not only increasing health problems but is also having a negative impact on the society.

Strict action against organized crime

FSDA has directed that if the name of any firm or individual surfaces in illegal sale and storage of drugs, action will be taken against it under the Gangster Act. Its objective is to root out organized crime.