Chandigarh– In a significant step toward bolstering pharmaceutical quality control, Haryana is poised to launch its inaugural state-run drug testing laboratory in Panchkula’s Sector-3, backed by central government funding. This modern facility promises to revolutionize local drug safety by enabling rapid on-site testing, slashing delays that currently force samples to be shipped out of state, and ultimately safeguarding patients from substandard medications.
The new lab addresses long-standing logistical hurdles in Haryana’s drug inspection process. At present, the state depends on aging infrastructure like the Regional Drug Testing Laboratory (RDTL) in Chandigarh’s Sector-11—a facility over 40 years old equipped only for basic analyses—and the overburdened lab in Sector-39, which serves multiple states. These limitations often result in prolonged turnaround times for reports, hampering swift action against adulterated or low-quality drugs.
Cutting-Edge Features and Swift Impact
Situated in the heart of Panchkula, the upcoming laboratory will feature state-of-the-art equipment capable of advanced testing protocols far beyond rudimentary checks. It will allow Haryana’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to analyze samples in-house, delivering faster results and streamlining coordination between inspectors and regulators. “This will enable quicker testing of drug samples right here in the state,” affirmed Drug Controller Lalit Goyal, emphasizing the lab’s role in curbing delays and enhancing oversight.
The initiative arrives at a critical juncture for Haryana, a burgeoning pharma powerhouse. The state hosts over 600 pharmaceutical industries that contribute nearly 30% of India’s total drug production. Proximity to Asia’s largest pharma cluster in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, means Haryana serves as a key distribution hub for medicines across the region. Local testing will be pivotal in ensuring these products meet stringent safety standards, minimizing side effects for consumers and bolstering public health.
Funded through central assistance under a broader national scheme, the Panchkula lab is slated for imminent operationalization, though exact completion dates remain pending final setups.
Expansion on the Horizon: Proposals for Gurugram and Hisar Labs
Building momentum, the Haryana FDA is gearing up to propose two additional drug testing facilities as part of the central government’s five-year plan for nationwide lab enhancements. One will be established in Gurugram to cater to the National Capital Region’s dense pharma ecosystem, while the second targets Hisar or a nearby district in the rural belt. These proposals are expected to be submitted to New Delhi this month, potentially unlocking further central funding and creating a robust statewide network.
Officials hail the developments as a “game-changer” for drug regulation, not just for Haryana but for the entire northern pharma corridor. By reducing reliance on external labs and accelerating quality checks, the triad of facilities will empower regulators to act decisively against violations, fostering trust in the supply chain and protecting end-users from health risks.
As Haryana’s pharma sector continues to expand, this trio of labs underscores the state’s commitment to innovation and accountability, ensuring that growth translates into safer medicines for millions.
