Centre proposes 10 new import gateways for drugs and medical devices
The Union Health Ministry seeks to add several inland container depots, an airport, and a special economic zone to the authorised import list.
The Union Health Ministry has proposed adding 10 new entry points to the authorised network for importing drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics into India, according to The Hindu. The proposal includes several inland container depots (ICDs), a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and an international airport.
The proposed amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, aims to improve supply chain efficiency and ease import operations. By expanding these gateways, the ministry expects to reduce inland transport distances and logistics costs by allowing importers to clear goods near their warehouses or manufacturing sites.
The new locations include ICDs at Sonipat, Piyala, and Harsaru in Haryana; Dadri in Uttar Pradesh; Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat; Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur in Hyderabad, Telangana; and Whitefield in Bengaluru, Karnataka. For air imports, the ministry has suggested including Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh and the Bommasandra SEZ in Karnataka.
These additions will supplement the current network, which already features notified airports and ICDs at Dhannad and Tihi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The ministry stated the move is intended to minimise delays and improve the availability of healthcare products across different regions.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has invited stakeholders to submit objections or suggestions regarding the draft amendment. Submissions can be sent to the Under Secretary (Drugs Regulation) or emailed to drugsdiv-mohfw@gov.in.