Cough syrup deaths: Health Minister, regulators, policy officials to brainstorm on fighting trust deficit

The World Health Organisation on January 11 had also issued a warning against the use of "two substandard (contaminated) products" manufactured by Marion Biotech Pvt. Ltd. in Uttar Pradesh.

"Discussions will focus on the present enforcement mechanism in place to address spurious, adulterated and substandard drugs, and the necessity for greater coordination between the states and the Centre in this regard and the issues and challenges in enforcement,” an official said.

According to officials, during the 'Chintan Shivir', experts and officials will assess the predictability, transparency, and accountability in drug quality regulation, as well as ensure compliance with Indian pharmacopoeia standards.

Additionally, they will work on developing a strong network for pharmacovigilance and materiovigilance programs.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is the regulatory authority responsible for the approval of new drugs, conducting clinical trials, ensuring the quality of imported drugs, and providing expert advice to State Drug Control Organizations.

The CDSCO operates under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, and its role is to promote uniformity in the enforcement of the act.

The Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 and the corresponding rules assign various responsibilities to both central and state regulators for the regulation of drugs and cosmetics. The aim of the act is to ensure patient safety, rights, and well-being by promoting the uniform implementation of its provisions and regulations.