On 8 September 2026, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare published draft rules proposing an amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945.
The draft amendment seeks to introduce mandatory CCTV surveillance at licensed premises supplying drugs on the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner. The proposal has been published for public comments and objections for a period of 30 days.
Stakeholders may submit objections or suggestions to:
Under Secretary (Drugs), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, at U-6, Work Hall-C Wing, First Floor, Kartavya Bhawan-1, New Delhi — 110001
Or
Email: drugsdiv-mohfw@gov.in
Key Highlights:
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The draft rules have been issued under Sections 12 and 33 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board.
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The proposed amendment seeks to insert a new sub-rule 65(2A) in the Drugs Rules, 1945.
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Under the proposed provision, prescription medicines may be supplied only under a Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system installed and maintained at the licensed premises.
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The requirement applies to prescription medicines supplied otherwise than by way of wholesale dealing, effectively covering retail pharmacies and other licensed premises dispensing drugs against a doctor’s prescription.
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The proposed rules would require CCTV recordings to be preserved for a minimum period of three months.
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The proposed measure is intended to strengthen monitoring and traceability in the retail supply of prescription medicines by requiring CCTV surveillance at licensed premises dispensing such drugs.
Also Read: Draft Drugs (Amendment) Rules, 2026: Aligning Blood Product Testing with International Standards
[Draft Drugs (Amendment) Rules, 2026, dated 8-9-2026]
