The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (MoCF) on July 31, 2026, issued availability and pricing of Essential Medicines.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) plays a key role in monitoring the availability of medicines, including generic drugs, across India. It identifies shortages through various sources such as State Price Monitoring and Resource Units and coordinates with State Governments and pharmaceutical companies to address supply gaps. In the past year, NPPA permitted a one-time 50% increase in ceiling prices of four critical medicines—Carboplatin Injection, Cisplatin Injection, and Anti-Tetanus Immunoglobulin (250 IU and 500 IU)—to tackle severe shortages and ensure continued availability.
NPPA also enforces compliance with the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, taking action against overcharging by pharmaceutical companies. As of March 31, 2026, action has been initiated in 2,737 overcharging cases, with demand notices issued accordingly. However, NPPA does not maintain state-wise data on such violations. These efforts aim to ensure price regulation and protect consumers from excessive pricing.
To improve access to affordable medicines, the government continues to expand the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), under which over 20,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) provide quality generic medicines at 50–80% lower prices than branded alternatives. Measures such as incentivising the stocking of 200 essential medicines, implementing a robust IT-enabled supply chain with warehouses and distributors, and continuous monitoring of 400 fast-moving products help ensure steady availability of medicines across the country.
In addition, several government initiatives enhance affordability and accessibility of healthcare. These include Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, offering ₹5 lakh health insurance coverage per family; the Free Drugs Service Initiative under the National Health Mission, providing free essential medicines at public health facilities; the AMRIT scheme, supplying discounted medicines and medical consumables; and financial assistance under Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi for economically weaker patients. Collectively, these measures aim to strengthen the availability, affordability, and accessibility of essential medicines nationwide.
[Release ID: 2292338]
