|
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has appealed and advised drug manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and other applicants to apply directly through the government’s authorised online system for obtaining drug licenses. It has further cautioned them against individuals or establishments claiming to be authorised agents or intermediaries of the Maharashtra FDA and demanding money for processing applications.
The Maharashtra FDA clarified that no agents, intermediaries or private organisations have been appointed by the government to facilitate or process applications for drug licenses. The department has made the licensing process available online, allowing applicants to submit applications and the required documents directly through the authorised portal without depending on any third party.
The advisory assumes significance amid complaints about individuals allegedly misusing the names of Maharashtra FDA officials and employees and presenting themselves as authorised representatives of the department. Such persons are reportedly demanding money from applicants on the pretext of securing or expediting drug licenses.
Applicants seeking drug licenses in Maharashtra have been advised to use only the official FDA Maharashtra online portal, fdamfg.maharashtra.gov.in, for submitting applications and accessing licensing-related information and guidelines. The department has specifically urged applicants not to hand over money or documents to persons claiming that they can obtain licenses through unofficial channels.
The Maharashtra FDA has also clarified that applicants can complete the licensing process themselves through the online system. The objective is to ensure that applications are submitted through the prescribed regulatory mechanism and to prevent applicants from becoming victims of fraudulent intermediaries who may misuse the names of government authorities.
Tukaram Mundhe, Commissioner, Maharashtra FDA said, “No agent or intermediary is required to obtain licenses related to Food and Drugs. The Maharashtra FDA has not appointed any person for this purpose. Applicants should personally use the government’s authorised online system to apply for licenses. If any individual or organisation demands money by citing the names of government officials, a complaint should be lodged with the authorities immediately.”
The Maharashtra FDA has further directed applicants to report any instance in which an FDA official or any person claiming to act on behalf of the department demands money for processing a drug licence application. Complaints can be submitted through the Commissionerate’s official email channel. The identity of the person providing information will be kept strictly confidential, according to the department.
The department has appealed to drug manufacturers, wholesale and retail drug dealers, existing licence holders and other applicants to remain cautious of such fraudulent activities and rely only on the authorised online licensing system. The move is aimed at ensuring transparency in drug licence applications, reducing dependence on intermediaries and enabling applicants to deal directly with the prescribed government system.
The Maharashtra FDA has also made available its Drug Licence Guidelines through its official online portal, providing applicants with information on the application process, documentation and other requirements.
Application process and guidelines (Drug License Guidelines): https://fdamfg.maharashtra.gov.in/DOCS/FDA%20Maharashtra%20Guidelines.pdf
|