The Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (IDMA) is gearing up to assist its member companies in adapting to the Revised Schedule M regulations aimed at enhancing the quality standards of drugs manufactured in India. Dr. S V Veeramani, former president of IDMA and chairman of Pharmexcil, revealed plans to provide legal and technical guidance through a series of webinar-style seminars and meetings.
Following an executive committee meeting in Gujarat, Dr. Veeramani emphasized the crucial support needed for MSMEs within the pharmaceutical sector. He highlighted the association’s initiative to organize state-specific webinars, starting with Tamil Nadu, aimed at educating smaller companies with turnovers under Rs. 250 crore on compliance activities.
Dr. Veeramani noted that larger companies in Tamil Nadu, with turnovers exceeding Rs. 250 crore, are already compliant with the new Schedule M norms. He assured that non-MSMEs are fully prepared for upcoming inspections by state regulators, scheduled to commence shortly.
M Sridhar, the drug controller, affirmed plans to conduct inspections and expressed a proactive approach in supporting the industry. He emphasized the department’s readiness to address industry concerns, underscoring the pharmaceutical sector’s importance as a backbone of Tamil Nadu’s economy.
Regarding the organization of seminars, Dr. Veeramani outlined IDMA’s role as a monitoring and supportive body, facilitating regular stakeholder meetings where regulatory officials will also participate to provide insights and updates.
Responding to queries about closures within the manufacturing sector, Dr. Veeramani clarified that there are no reports of any manufacturing units shutting down in Tamil Nadu, reaffirming the sector’s stability and resilience.
The initiatives discussed reflect IDMA’s proactive stance in fostering compliance and support within the pharmaceutical industry, crucial for maintaining high standards and ensuring continued growth in drug manufacturing across India.