Almora: Keeping public health and safety in mind, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted a special inspection drive across Almora district. During the campaign, medical stores and pharmaceutical establishments operating in Basoli, Takula, and several other areas of the district were thoroughly inspected.
Drug Inspector पूजा जोशी informed that the objective of the drive was to ensure the availability of safe and quality medicines to the public. During the inspections, officials examined storage conditions of medicines, purchase and sale records, licenses, and other regulatory documents of the medical stores.
She stated that the department carefully checked whether the establishments were functioning according to the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and other prescribed standards. During the inspection, several irregularities and violations were reportedly found in some establishments.
Taking the matter seriously, the department has recommended suspension of the drug license of one firm. In addition, the purchase and sale activities of two other firms have been stopped with immediate effect to prevent any possible risk to public health.
Officials said that the action has been taken in the interest of public safety and health. The FDA made it clear that negligence regarding public health or violation of regulatory norms would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Drug Inspector Pooja Joshi further informed that two samples of suspected medicines were also collected during the inspection. These samples will be sent to a government laboratory for testing and analysis. Further action will be taken as per the rules after receiving the laboratory reports.
She said that the department remains alert against the sale of counterfeit, expired, or substandard medicines in the district. According to officials, regular inspection drives are being conducted to maintain quality standards in pharmaceutical establishments and ensure that consumers receive safe medicines.
The FDA has also instructed all medical store operators and drug sellers to strictly follow prescribed norms related to storage, sale, and maintenance of records. They have been advised to keep their licenses and documents updated at all times.
Following the department’s action, panic-like conditions have reportedly emerged among several medical store operators in the district. Many shop owners have started reviewing their records and storage systems to ensure compliance with departmental regulations.
FDA officials stated that such inspection and enforcement drives will continue in the future as well to safeguard public health and ensure the availability of quality medicines for the people of Almora district.
