Centre proposes 10 new import gateways for drugs, medical devices
The proposed amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, is aimed at easing import operations, reducing inland transportation distances and improving the movement of healthcare products across the country
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The Union Health Ministry has proposed expanding the network of authorised entry points for the import of drugs, medical devices and cosmetics into India, adding 10 inland container depots (ICDs), a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and an international airport to the existing list of notified locations.
The proposed amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, is aimed at easing import operations, reducing inland transportation distances and improving the movement of healthcare products across the country.
The additional locations proposed include ICD Sonipat, Piyala and Harsaru in Haryana; ICD Dadri in Uttar Pradesh; ICD Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat; ICD Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur in Hyderabad, Telangana; and ICD Whitefield in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The Ministry has also proposed including SEZ Bommasandra in Karnataka and Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh for the import of drugs by air.
The proposed additions will supplement the existing network of authorised import gateways, which includes ICDs at Dhannad and Tihi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, besides airports already notified for drug imports.
Rule 43A specifies the ports, airports, railway stations, road crossings and other entry points through which drugs can be imported into India.
According to the Ministry, expanding the network is expected to allow importers to clear consignments closer to their manufacturing facilities, warehouses and distribution centres. This could reduce inland transportation requirements, optimise logistics costs and minimise delays in the movement of imported consignments.
The move is also intended to improve operational convenience for importers and strengthen the supporting infrastructure for the supply of medicines, medical devices and cosmetics.
The Ministry has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders on the draft amendment. Responses can be submitted to the Under Secretary (Drugs Regulation), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, or emailed to drugsdiv-mohfw@gov.in.
The amendment will be taken forward after consideration of the objections and suggestions received, noted a release issued by the Ministry.
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