Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha reveals 62 substandard medicine cases detected over two years, with strict legal action underway. Regular inspections, enforcement drives, and testing of drugs highlight the government’s intensified crackdown on unsafe pharmaceuticals.
In a disclosure aimed at strengthening public health safety, Manik Saha on Tuesday informed the state assembly that authorities have identified 62 cases of Not of Standard Quality (NSQ) medicines across the state over the last two financial years. The announcement highlights an ongoing crackdown on substandard pharmaceutical products circulating in local markets.
Responding to a series of questions raised by Gopal Chandra Roy, the Chief Minister detailed the findings and the actions taken by the state’s drug control authorities. The veteran legislator had sought clarity on whether any spurious or substandard medicines had been detected recently, referencing nationwide enforcement drives targeting unsafe drug distribution.
According to the data presented in the assembly, 19 samples of NSQ medicines were collected during the 2024–2025 financial year, while a significantly higher number—43 samples—were identified in 2025–2026. The steady increase in detection reflects intensified surveillance and stricter enforcement measures undertaken by the state government.
“Regular enforcement drives are conducted across the state. The authorities of the Drug Control agency carry out inspections and collect samples, which are then randomly tested. Based on the results, further proceedings are initiated,” the Chief Minister stated.
He further clarified that critical medical supplies, including saline solutions and injectable drugs, are also subjected to testing protocols, ensuring that even life-saving medications meet safety and quality standards. This assurance came in response to a supplementary query raised during the session.
Providing further details on enforcement actions, Dr Saha informed the house that the drug control authorities have taken stringent steps in multiple cases. In 16 instances, the production of specific medicines was ordered to be suspended due to quality concerns. Additionally, three cases are currently under judicial consideration, while legal proceedings are underway in as many as 40 cases.
The government’s proactive approach underscores a broader commitment to safeguarding public health amid growing concerns about the circulation of substandard and counterfeit medicines across the country. Experts believe that regular inspections, coupled with strict legal action, are essential to deter manufacturers and distributors from compromising on quality standards.
The issue of substandard medicines has gained national attention in recent years, with several states ramping up enforcement drives to curb the menace. In this context, Tripura’s intensified monitoring and transparent reporting signal a decisive move toward accountability and regulatory vigilance.
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As the state continues to strengthen its healthcare oversight mechanisms, the administration has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that only safe, effective, and high-quality medicines reach the public. The latest data presented in the assembly serves both as a warning to errant pharmaceutical entities and as reassurance to citizens regarding the government’s vigilance.
