New Delhi, 17 September (H.S.): CCTV cameras may become mandatory at all medical stores in the coming days, with the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare proposing amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945. The proposed changes are aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight of the sale and distribution of medicines classified under Schedules H, H1 and X. The ministry issued a notification on September 8 proposing mandatory CCTV surveillance at medical stores. The measure is intended to enhance transparency and accountability in the sale of these medicines.

According to the proposal, CCTV surveillance is being introduced as an additional regulatory safeguard in view of concerns over unauthorised access to restricted medicines and their sale without valid prescriptions.

The proposal was earlier discussed by the Drugs Consultative Committee. It was subsequently referred to members of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) for consideration. Following deliberations, the board recommended approval of the proposal.

A ministry official said on Thursday that once the amendment comes into effect, regulatory monitoring of the sale and distribution of Schedule H and Schedule X medicines is expected to be strengthened. The measure could also help curb the sale of these medicines without a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner and prevent unauthorised access to them.

The CCTV system is also expected to enhance transparency and accountability across the pharmaceutical supply chain and strengthen safeguards related to public health.

The ministry has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders and members of the public on the proposed amendment. Suggestions and objections may be submitted to the Under Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar