India ranks third worldwide for pharmaceutical production by volume. and fourteenth by value (IBEF, 2021). Despite the country being the third largest producer of drugs, sixty per cent people in India cannot afford to buy medicines due to its high pricing, while some are not easily available. This fact was pointed out during the observation of World Pharmacists Day 2022 in Imphal Sunday.
"In India 60 per cent of people of the country are not able to buy drugs as they are not available easily and not affordable. In the state, medicines are available at a high price. They should be made available and affordable. The issue is an illness found in the manufacturing sector," said Dr Kh Sasheekumar Mangang, director of health services, Manipur.
The state Health director was speaking at the event held under the theme "Pharmacy united in action for a healthier world", which was organised by members, registrar and staff of the Manipur State Pharmacy Council and Directorate of Health Services.
Pointing out the problem of over prescription as "sickness of doctors", Dr Sasheekumar said, "Some doctors prescribe more medicines than may not require it, not only in the state but throughout the world. Not only over prescription, doctors have communication with pharmacist’s promoters and prescribe medicines, he said.
The Health director also said that India is the third largest producer of drugs and is producing high quality drugs. Drugs produced in India are popular in several countries, including the United States, Myanmar, China, Africa and Australia, he said.
However, substandard medicines are available in the state, such as Rifampicin (450 mg), he pointed out and asked how people can benefit from high pricing, reduced quality and non-availability of medicines in the market.
Also pointing out that, in the retail sector, rules are violated in license or permit system and in selling and OTC purchase of medicines, the director called upon all to take a pledge to improve the health sector. He also urged pharmacists to follow ethics to bring a positive impact on the health of the society.
The Health director then clarified that the patients have to pay minmal amount of fee to avail services under AYUSHMAN Bharat and CM Haksel Tengbang.
The observation function was attended by Manipur State Pharmacy Council president RK Basumani; AYUSH director A Guneshwor Sharma; Manipur Medical Council president L Ranjit; JNIMS MS Kh Lokeshwor; RIMS deputy MS Triniti and retired judge A Noutuneshwari Devi.
A panel discussion on sales, distribution and regulation of drugs and medical devices in the state was also held.
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