Pharmacists cautioned against flouting norms
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 24 2025: While disclosing that the Indian Pharmacist Association (IPA), Manipur State has received reports about several pharmacy outlets across the state operating without obtaining valid retail license issued by the competent Drug Control Authority and several persons running pharmacy retail shop by obtaining wholesale drug license in violation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules 1945, IPA Manipur president Elangbam Ajay Singh reminded all concerned that primary objective of the Act is to ensure sale of drugs and cosmetics which are safe, effective and conform to state quality standards and to make available standard quality drug & cosmetic to the consumer.

Cautioning that unauthorised operations not only jeopardise public health but also violate the provisions of the 1940 Act and the 1945 Rules, mandating all pharmacy outlets to possess valid licence and under supervision of qualified registered pharmacists, the president expressed concerned that the noble profession of pharmacy is being turned into a business by those who have no understanding of a pharmacist's true role.

"Pharmacy is not just a trade but a profession grounded in ethics and guided by the oath we take to serve humanity," said the president, while declaring that in light of such violations, IPA will soon begin a state wide inspection with the drug inspectors and awareness drive to identify and report unlawful pharmacies to the appropriate authorities.

Further stating that the initiative aims to protect the health and rights of patients, uphold professional standards, and ensure legal compliance, the Ajya urged all individuals and institutions involved in the sale and distribution of medicines to strictly adhere to the legal norms.

IPA also called upon departments concerned to take strict action against violators as per the law and advised all the pharmacies to honour doctor's prescription and not change the prescribed brand without the consent of the doctor concerned.

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