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 The Gujarat Food & Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) has been at the forefront of the battle against the illegal sale of narcotic and psychotropic drugs. “The department has been monitoring, inspecting, and taking strict legal actions to curb the unauthorized distribution of habit-forming substances such as codeine syrup, alprazolam, tramadol, and nitrazepam. Through stringent enforcement of the Drugs & Cosmetics (D&C) Act, 1940, the FDCA has been working tirelessly to eliminate the menace of drug abuse and ensure public health safety,” informs Gujarat FDCA Commissioner Dr. H G Koshia.
Regular surveillance is maintained to identify and prevent illegal sales. Whenever violations are detected, immediate action is taken against offenders. Depending on the severity of the offense, consequences range from temporary suspension of licenses to permanent cancellations, and in serious cases, legal proceedings are initiated against the culprits. The FDCA does not hesitate to bring criminal charges against those who defy regulations and put public health at risk.
Beyond enforcement, the department actively engages in awareness campaigns aimed at educating chemists and druggists about the risks associated with the abuse of habit-forming drugs. These initiatives, conducted in collaboration with industry associations, play a vital role in curbing youth addiction and promoting responsible drug dispensing practices.
In its relentless drive to dismantle illicit drug networks, the FDCA, in coordination with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and local law enforcement agencies, carries out targeted raids based on intelligence reports. These operations have led to significant seizures of narcotic and psychotropic substances and the shutdown of illegal suppliers operating without valid licenses.
Demonstrating its commitment to stringent drug control, the FDCA has undertaken extensive inspections and enforcement actions. In the year 2024, a total of 2,860 chemist shops were inspected with 425 chemist shop licenses suspended for up to 30 days. Around 51 chemist shop licenses were permanently cancelled due to non-compliance.
Over the years, the FDCA’s efforts have resulted in the increasing confiscation of illegally traded narcotic and psychotropic drugs. The monetary value of the seized drugs reflects the growing scale of action taken against offenders.
With continued vigilance, strict enforcement measures, and proactive public awareness initiatives, the Gujarat FDCA aims to create a safer, drug-free society. The fight against illicit drugs requires collective effort, and the FDCA urges all stakeholders—including law enforcement agencies, pharmacists, and the general public—to join hands in this mission.
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