In a major move aimed at strengthening the regulated pharmaceutical sector and ensuring strict compliance with India’s drug control framework, 42 licences for the sale, stocking, exhibition and distribution of Schedule X drugs were distributed to beneficiaries during a ceremony held at LNC Hotel, Kangpokpi, on Wednesday.
The programme was organised by the Chemist & Druggist Association Kangpokpi District and attended by David Letgoulien Gangte, Drug Inspector In-Charge of Kangpokpi District, representatives of civil society organisations, pharmacy owners and members of the association.
The licences were issued by the Directorate of Health Services, Manipur through the Licensing and Controlling Authority under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945.
According to the association, 25 beneficiaries received Wholesale Drug Licences authorising them to sell, stock, exhibit for sale and distribute Schedule X medicines through wholesale channels, while 17 beneficiaries were granted Retail Drug Licences for authorised retail operations involving such drugs.
Hencha Kipgen, President of the Chemist & Druggist Association Kangpokpi District, stated that Schedule X drugs fall under a highly regulated category of medicines that include certain psychotropic and habit-forming pharmaceutical products. He said their manufacture, storage and sale are governed by stringent statutory provisions to prevent misuse and illegal diversion.
He further explained that the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules permit the sale of these medicines only through licensed entities, with mandatory prescription requirements, maintenance of records and strict regulatory oversight.
Addressing the gathering, David Letgoulien Gangte emphasised the need for transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical supply chain. He observed that the issuance of the licences reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that the trade and distribution of medicines remain within the ambit of law and are carried out only through authorised channels.
The Drug Inspector formally handed over the licences to the beneficiaries in the presence of office bearers of the Chemist & Druggist Association Kangpokpi District, who described the initiative as a significant milestone for the district’s pharmaceutical community.
The association noted that the move would facilitate lawful business operations, strengthen regulatory compliance and improve public access to medicines through licensed establishments. It also expressed optimism that the initiative would help promote professional standards among chemists and druggists while enhancing monitoring mechanisms against the unauthorised sale of controlled medicines.
The programme concluded with a call for all licence holders to strictly comply with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules, maintain prescribed records and ensure that Schedule X medicines are handled in accordance with the safeguards laid down by the regulatory authorities.
