|
 In a decisive move to strengthen public health safeguards and curb the misuse of antibiotics, the Gujarat Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) has implemented stringent regulatory actions across all districts of the state. The campaign, spearheaded by Gujarat FDCA Commissioner Dr H G Koshia, targets unlawful practices under the Drugs and Cosmetics (D&C) Act and reinforces Gujarat’s commitment to controlling antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“We are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the rational use of antibiotics. Misuse and over-the-counter sale of antimicrobial drugs is a grave public health danger,” said Dr Koshia.
According to the official data released by the Gujarat FDCA, around 4,433 sales premises were inspected by district-level Assistant Commissioners to ensure compliance with drug regulations. Around 603 sales licenses were suspended for periods of up to 30 days due to non-compliance or violations related to the sale of antibiotics.
Around 11 licenses were permanently cancelled, signalling a zero-tolerance policy toward repeated or grave violations. 1,068 samples of antimicrobial drugs were withdrawn from sale for detailed analysis, underscoring the seriousness of the department’s quality control measures. Eight raids were conducted at manufacturing and sales premises involved in suspected illegal antibiotic trade practices.
Additionally, to tackle the rising threat of AMR, the Gujarat FDCA organized 19 district-level antimicrobial resistance awareness programmes, reaching over 2,422 stakeholders, including manufacturers, chemists, and druggist association members.
These efforts reflect the FDCA’s proactive stance in ensuring safe pharmaceutical practices and public awareness regarding the responsible use of antibiotics. The programs also align with national and global public health priorities on AMR.
Experts in the field have welcomed the initiatives, stating that Gujarat’s comprehensive regulatory and educational approach could serve as a model for other states. For 2025–26, the FDCA plans to further expand its surveillance, incorporate digital monitoring tools, and intensify training programs for pharmacy professionals to sustain the fight against antimicrobial misuse.
|