The government is going to set up a high-level committee to work out the modalities to enable a single-window clearance system in pharmaceuticals sector. Presently, while the issue of patents is dealt by Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), drug licence is given by Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) under Health Ministry and pricing is controlled by NPPA, under Pharmaceuticals Department.
The proposed committee will be headed by Pharmaceuticals Secretary V K Subburaj and the move follows a recommendation by the task force on enabling the private sector to lead the growth of the pharmaceuticals sector. The other members of the committee will include representatives from Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Commerce, Science and Technology, Bio-technology, Environment and Health and Family Welfare. While, the industry would be represented by Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (IDMA), Bulk Drug Manufacturers Association (BDMA), Association of Indian Medical Devices Industry (AIMED), CII, FICCI, ASSOCHAM and others.
Chemicals and Fertiliser Minister Ananth Kumar stressing on the importance of having a single authority for clearance in the sector, has said that key decision-making powers on various important aspects such 'patents, licencing and pricing are with different departments' and this committee will suggest a mechanism for single-window clearance for the pharmaceuticals industry.