Madhubani, Bihar – In a bid to strengthen regulatory oversight in the pharmaceutical sector, authorities in Madhubani district have reissued strict guidelines requiring drug inspectors to conduct a minimum of 20 routine inspections and 5 joint surprise raids every month. The directive comes in response to observed lapses in enforcement, including delays in drug licensing and recurring violations at sales outlets.
According to local health department officials, the renewed instructions aim to address inconsistencies uncovered during a recent audit of the Online Drug Licensing System (ONDLS). Inspectors have been reminded that failure to meet these targets could lead to further scrutiny, as some personnel have reportedly fallen short in their duties.
Key Enforcement Measures Outlined
- Monthly Inspection Quota: Each drug inspector must perform at least 20 standard inspections of pharmaceutical establishments and 5 collaborative surprise checks or raids, involving coordination with other regulatory teams.
- Action on Repeat Violations: If similar errors—such as improper storage, labeling issues, or unlicensed sales—are detected multiple times at the same outlet, inspectors are empowered to initiate immediate corrective actions. A mandatory report of these steps must be forwarded to the Deputy Drug Controller for oversight.
- Expedited Licensing Process: Reviewing officers are directed to fast-track applications for new drug licenses, which have previously been stalled for 20-25 days. This bottleneck has delayed license issuances and hampered business operations for legitimate vendors.
- Detailed Reporting Standards: All inspection reports must now include comprehensive details, such as the full name and address of the pharmaceutical sales establishment, along with the proprietor’s email address (where available), to enhance traceability and follow-up.
