Last Updated on January 6, 2024 by The Health Master
Separate Controlling & Licensing Authority in Tamil Nadu
The Tamil Nadu government has finally taken a significant step by appointing a State Licensing Authority (SLA) within the Department of Drug Control.
In a move to separate responsibilities, the government has assigned an Assistant Drug Controller (ADC) in Kancheepuram district with additional charge as the SLA.
This decision aims to comply with the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940, which allows the appointment of separate licensing and controlling authorities.
Separation of Responsibilities:
Under this new arrangement, the government has entrusted the senior-most officer in the department, MN Sridhar, with the role of controlling authority (JDC), effectively separating the duties of the Drug Controller (DC).
In the Kancheepuram zone of the Drug Control Administration (DCA), Habib Mohammad has been appointed as the SLA.
This marks the first instance of Tamil Nadu having distinct officers for controlling and licensing in its drug control administration.
Integration of Departments:
Simultaneously, the government has established a new department called the Tamil Nadu Food Safety and Drug Administration (TNFS&DA).
This department integrates the existing Food Wing of the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine with the Drugs Control Department.
R Lalvena IAS, the Commissioner of Food Safety, has been appointed as the director of the drug control department.
This amalgamation aims to bring both the food safety department and the drug control administration under one unified body.
Appointment of Licensing Authority:
Lalvena confirmed that he assumed the role of director of the drug control department after the principal secretary of health signed the order on Friday afternoon.
Gagandeep Singh Bedi, the principal secretary of health, stated that the appointment of a licensing authority has been finalized, putting an end to the previous lack of clarity in this area.
Industry Response:
The industry has welcomed the appointment of a licensing authority, expressing hope for the swift resumption of license issuance.
J Jayaseelan, Chairman of the Tamil Nadu branch of the Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (TN IDMA), emphasized the urgency of clearing pending license applications, as pharmaceutical exports have been halted for the past month.
Manufacturing units have also faced significant disruptions during this period.
Conclusion:
With the appointment of a State Licensing Authority and the integration of the food safety department and drug control administration, Tamil Nadu’s drug control efforts aim to become more efficient and effective.
While concerns about the division of powers persist, addressing these challenges will be crucial to maintain a streamlined and transparent drug control system in the state.
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