Mumbai: In a groundbreaking initiative to tackle the sale of adulterated, counterfeit, and spurious medicines, the Gujarat Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) has formed special flying squads for the first time in the state’s history. These squads, comprising two enforcement teams each, are led by an assistant commissioner and include senior drug inspectors and drug inspectors. This strategic move has been approved by the state government to enhance surveillance and monitoring across the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Dr HG Koshia, the FDCA Commissioner, hailed the formation of these squads as a “landmark move” in ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines available in the market. “In order to curb the clandestine activity involving the sale of adulterated, counterfeit, and spurious medicines, Gujarat FDCA has set up a special flying squad of two enforcement teams each headed by an assistant commissioner and comprising senior drug inspectors and drug inspectors for the first time in Gujarat for effective surveillance and monitoring,” stated Dr. Koshia.
The enforcement teams have been meticulously selected from a pool of 175 officers within the Gujarat FDCA’s enforcement department, based on their competence and track record. These squads are tasked with monitoring the entire supply chain, which includes over 6,000 manufacturers and around 55,000 wholesalers and retailers across Gujarat.
The primary objective of these squads is to conduct regular and surprise inspections, ensure compliance with drug safety regulations, and take stringent actions against violators. By doing so, the FDCA aims to safeguard public health and maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical market.
Dr. Koshia emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The formation of these squads marks a significant step towards ensuring that only safe and genuine medicines reach the consumers. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of drug safety and will take all necessary measures to eliminate any threats posed by adulterated and counterfeit drugs.”
