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TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The Government is preparing a policy response after seeking inputs from the pharmaceutical industry on the ongoing shortage and price surge of critical solvents and chemicals. Industry reported sharp increases in inputs like isopropyl alcohol and other petrochemical-based solvents, impacting production costs and supply continuity, prompting urgent intervention and long-term supply-chain stabilisation measures.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYxw

2. The Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict on an interim plea filed by Asian News International in a copyright infringement case against OpenAI. The case questions whether copyrighted news content can be used to train AI models like ChatGPT without permission, marking a first-of-its-kind legal challenge in India.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYy0

3. The Government is considering invoking the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 to regulate prices of bulk drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients amid supply disruptions linked to West Asia tensions. The Department of Pharmaceuticals is consulting industry stakeholders to curb hoarding, stabilize prices, and ensure uninterrupted medicine production.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYxH

4. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has released FAQs on the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Amendment Regulations, 2026, clarifying key reforms including perpetual licence validity, revised turnover thresholds, expanded petty food business definition, and risk-based inspections to simplify compliance and strengthen food safety oversight.
Source: shortlink.uk/1sbDB

5. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has notified the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) First Amendment Regulations, 2026, introducing revised labelling exemptions, non-retail container requirements, and updated warning declarations. The amendments will come into force from 1 July 2027, giving industry transition time for compliance.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYxL

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified a 0.64956% increase in the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for 2025 over 2024. Importers and manufacturers of Scheduled drugs and medical device are now permitted to increase the prices on the basis of WPI without prior approval from the government from April 1, 2026.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYsg

2. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has clarified that all IVF-related devices, including sperm washing kits and intrauterine insemination tools, are regulated as medical devices under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Import, manufacture, and sale of these devices require proper licensing to ensure compliance and prevent unauthorized trade.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYsj

3. India’s Central Drug authority, (CDSCO) has streamlined the procedure for review and processing Written Confirmation certificate (WCC) applications submitted through the SUGAM portal for export of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) to EU for human use. The move aims to improve efficiency aligning with EU GMP compliance requirements under Article 46(2)(b) of Directive 2001/83/EC.
Source: shortlink.uk/1sbyd

4. The National Medical Commission (NMC), following a Supreme Court of India ruling, now limits stem cell therapy to approved conditions only, so far there are 32 approved conditions. Unproven uses outside clinical trials are banned, with strict ethical rules and legal action to prevent misuse and protect patients.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYsV

5. The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) has directed hotels and restaurants to stop adding charges such as “LPG charges” and “fuel cost recovery” to customer bills, terming the practice an unfair trade practice, and warning of strict action. The CCPA clarified LPG and electricity, are part of running a business and should be factored into final menu prices.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYt2

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory directing all milk producers (other than members of dairy cooperative societies) and milk vendors to obtain mandatory FSSAI registration or licensing before commencing or continuing operations. States and UTs have been instructed to conduct special registration drives and enforcement checks to ensure compliance and curb milk adulteration.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYp6

2. Supreme Court reportedly declines plea seeking mandatory Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing in blood banks, stating medical policy decisions must rest with domain experts and governments. The Court noted financial implications and advised the petitioner to approach authorities, while concerns over transfusion transmitted infections and patient safety were highlighted.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYnK

3. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has delegated key regulatory functions related to veterinary drugs to its zonal offices. Zonal offices will now process Test License (Form 11) applications for import and issue NOCs for Form 29 licenses for manufacturing veterinary drugs for testing or analysis, excluding biologicals.
Source: shortlink.uk/1sbtE

4. India’s Drugs Technical Advisory Board, in its 93rd meeting, recommended amending the Drugs Rules, 1945 to introduce licensing provisions for drug marketers. The move aims to strengthen regulatory oversight and monitoring of entities that market drugs manufactured by other companies under their own label.
Source 1: shortlink.uk/1mYo2
Source 2: shortlink.uk/1mYo4

5. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has reportedly encouraged plant-based food manufacturers to include QR codes on product labels to help consumers easily access ingredient lists and nutritional information. The regulator said the move currently voluntary can address label space limitations, improve transparency, and build consumer trust in the rapidly growing plant-based food sector.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mYof

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The government clarified no proposal exists for a uniform nationwide pricing framework for medical devices. National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority continues to regulate ceiling prices for essential devices like stents and knee implants under Drugs Prices Control Order, 2013, while monitoring non scheduled products and taking action against overcharging to safeguard consumer interests.
Source: shortlink.uk/1s0VO

2. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare approved major reforms to strengthen food safety while improving ease of doing business. Measures include perpetual licences, higher turnover thresholds, deemed registration for street vendors, and risk based inspections, reducing compliance burden and enhancing regulatory efficiency
Source: shortlink.uk/1s0VY

3. The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) of India has formed an expert committee to address invasive alien species threatening India’s biodiversity, ecosystems, agriculture, and health. It will create a national list, identify high-risk species, and recommend management strategies, research, and guidelines for prevention, control, and ecological restoration over a two-year period.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mOaJ

4. The Delhi High Court has issued notices to the government and CDSCO over alleged inaction on misuse of diabetes drug Ozempic for weight loss, citing non-compliance with earlier directives. The case raises concerns on regulatory oversight, off-label use controls, and potential compliance risks for pharma players amid rising scrutiny.
Source: shortlink.uk/1s0Wd

5. A Parliamentary panel has asked the Ministry of Defence to expedite pending payments to hospitals under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, warning that delays are forcing private providers to opt out. The move aims to restore service continuity and protect healthcare access for over one crore beneficiaries.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mOaW

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has extended the deadline for registered Producers, Importers and Brand Owners (PIBOs) to file Annual Returns for FY 2024–25 under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 until March 31, 2026. Non-compliance may attract environmental compensation.
Source: shortlink.uk/1rAfG

2. The Central Pollution Control Board has issued show cause notices to PIBOs for failing to meet EPR obligations and not submitting Annual Returns for FY 2022–23 under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. Defaulters will face environmental compensation and tighter enforcement from authorities
Source: shortlink.uk/1rAg8
Source: shortlink.uk/1rAga

3. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued show cause notices to producers, importers, and brand owners (PIBOs) for failing to meet Extended Producer Responsibility obligations, fulfil targets, and file annual returns under the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 for FY 2022–23. Non-compliant entities may have to pay environmental compensation, face penalties, and higher future targets. Entities must respond latest by 26.03.2026or face further regulatory and legal action.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mol6

4. The Karnataka government has released a draft policy promoting responsible digital use among students, focusing on curbing screen addiction, cyber risks, and mental health impacts. The move aligns with its broader push to restrict social media access for minors and regulate device usage.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mol8

5. Parliamentary panel has reportedly urged the Department of Pharmaceuticals to address administrative delays affecting the Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma MedTech Sector scheme after significant underutilisation of funds. Despite increased allocations, spending remained low. Revised guidelines and stronger monitoring are expected to improve execution and outcomes.
Source: shortlink.uk/1rAgj

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The government clarified no proposal exists for a uniform nationwide pricing framework for medical devices. National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority continues to regulate ceiling prices for essential devices like stents and knee implants under Drugs Prices Control Order, 2013, while monitoring non scheduled products and taking action against overcharging to safeguard consumer interests.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mogz

2. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare approved major reforms to strengthen food safety while improving ease of doing business. Measures include perpetual licences, higher turnover thresholds, deemed registration for street vendors, and risk based inspections, reducing compliance burden and enhancing regulatory efficiency
Source: shortlink.uk/1rAbJ

3. The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA) of India has formed an expert committee to address invasive alien species threatening India’s biodiversity, ecosystems, agriculture, and health. It will create a national list, identify high-risk species, and recommend management strategies, research, and guidelines for prevention, control, and ecological restoration over a two-year period.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mogO

4. The Delhi High Court has issued notices to the government and CDSCO over alleged inaction on misuse of diabetes drug Ozempic for weight loss, citing non-compliance with earlier directives. The case raises concerns on regulatory oversight, off-label use controls, and potential compliance risks for pharma players amid rising scrutiny.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mogP

5. A Parliamentary panel has asked the Ministry of Defence to expedite pending payments to hospitals under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, warning that delays are forcing private providers to opt out. The move aims to restore service continuity and protect healthcare access for over one crore beneficiaries.
Source: shortlink.uk/1mogU

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The Supreme Court of India has urged the Union Government to enact a comprehensive law governing passive euthanasia and end of life care in India. The Court noted that the absence of legislation has repeatedly required judicial guidelines, while permitting withdrawal of life sustaining treatment for a patient in a prolonged vegetative state.
Source: short-url.org/1qSHk

2. The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) has recommended amending entry no. 33 of Schedule K to permit only unflavoured nicotine gums (2 mg) under sale license exemptions. Nicotine lozenges (2 mg) are excluded. Sale to minors is prohibited, online access closely monitored, and marketing by the tobacco industry restricted.
Source: short-url.org/1qSHq

3. A Mumbai Sessions Court has set aside criminal proceedings against directors of an e-commerce platform in a case concerning alleged online sale of abortion pills. The court held that the company operates as an intermediary marketplace and cannot be held directly liable for products listed by third-party sellers, highlighting limits on platform liability in e-commerce
Source: short-url.org/1lJ8-

4. The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) has recommended introducing a separate form for wholesale bulk drug licences to capture details of wholesalers dealing with NDPS substances. Qualification criteria for competent persons and adequate transition time for existing wholesaler licensees to obtain the new licence is also proposed by DTAB
Source: short-url.org/1lJ9e

5. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has issued an advisory warning manufacturers, importers and marketing authorisation holders against direct or indirect promotion of prescription medicines, including GLP-1 receptor agonists. The regulator noted that surrogate advertising, misleading efficacy claims and promotional campaigns increasing product visibility may constitute misleading marketing practices.
Source: short-url.org/1lJ9i

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The Kerala High Court ruled that brand ambassadors are not liable for unfair trade practices or deficient services under the Consumer Protection Act unless a direct transactional link with consumers is proven. Endorsers face penalties only for misleading advertisements, and are protected where due diligence to verify claims is demonstrated by law.
Source: h7.cl/1hJqC

2. State Drugs Regulator of Telangana has recently issued a stop-use advisory for a children’s syrup prescribed for allergies, hay fever, and asthma, after a CDSCO lab detected toxic ethylene glycol contamination. The public was advised to stop use immediately, report possession, and authorities ordered freezing of affected stocks to avert health risks.
Source: h7.cl/1mGN8

3. A Parliamentary Standing Committee has urged the Ministry of AYUSH to integrate allopathy and traditional medicine, recommending AYUSH departments in all AIIMS, stronger collaboration with the Health Ministry, and time-bound action to create a pluralistic, integrated healthcare system nationwide.
Source: h7.cl/1mGNc

4. The Bureau of Indian Standards has notified amendments to 22 Indian Standards covering dairy products, infant foods, milk substitutes, and special medical nutrition. Amendments were established from 15 December 2025, and existing standards will remain in force till 14 June 2026, giving business operators a defined transition period for compliance.
Source: h7.cl/1hJqz

5. The US Food and Drug Administration has relaxed the oversight of general wellness devices, clarifying that low-risk products such as fitness trackers and wellness apps will not be actively regulated as medical devices if they avoid disease-related claims. The move aims to reduce regulatory burden and encourage innovation in consumer and digital health technologies.
Source: h7.cl/1hJqP
Source: h7.cl/1hJqT

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The CDSCO via a circular has directed all licensing authorities to ensure that retail and wholesale pharmacy stores prominently display the designated Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PVPI) QR code and toll-free number. This initiative aims to facilitate easy and seamless reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADR) by the public, strengthening drug safety monitoring.
Source: h7.cl/1jLf0

2. FSSAI has issued an advisory for dairy units selling milk/milk products via vending machines and kiosks, directing them to maintain approved rapid-test kits on-site for detecting common adulterants. The machines must display usage instructions, enable consumer self-tests or staff-demonstrations, retain usage records, and ensure kit validity and proper storage.
Source: h7.cl/1jLfi

3. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reportedly directed immediate removal of fruit-based beverages, R-T-S drinks and energy drinks labelled with the term “ORS” from retail and e-commerce platforms, reaffirming that only formulations meeting WHO oral-rehydration-solution standards may use “ORS”.
Source: h7.cl/1jLft

4. Indian Government reportedly plans to amend the Drugs and Cosmetics Act by adding sale licensing conditions a per which advertising of high-risk drugs in Schedules G, H, H1 and X will be explicitly banned, including via e-commerce and digital platforms, in order to curb self-medication, misleading claims an misuse of potent medicines.
Source: h7.cl/1jLfQ

5. Indian Government is reportedly framing a broader medical-device manufacturing policy aimed at cutting the country’s heavy import dependence. The plan focuses on boosting domestic production, introducing quality standards for thousands of devices, promoting zero-defect manufacturing, and strengthening India’s global competitiveness in the healthcare technology sector.
Source: h7.cl/1eWCg

Posted on

TOP 5 HEALTH LAWS AND POLICY UPDATES

Dear Readers, we are happy to share the most interesting legal and policy updates concerning health industry that we read today. We hope you enjoy reading it.

1. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued the Draft Food Safety and Standards (Alcoholic Beverages) Amendment Regulations, 2025, proposing tighter standards for special wine. The draft introduces a 0.3% sugar tolerance for “Brut” sparkling wine, removes “special wine used,” and makes standard-drink labelling mandatory. A format for public comments has been shared, and feedback is open until 3rd January 2026.
Source 1: urli.info/1jcbJ
Source 2: urli.info/1eoEY

2. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has reportedly instructed state drug controllers to immediately initiate inspections under the revised Schedule M for the manufacturing units that have not applied for extensions. For manufacturing units that have applied for extensions, the effective date for revised Schedule M implementation is January 1, 2026. The directive follows recent safety lapses, including the fatal cough-syrup incident.
Source: urli.info/1eoDR

3. The Goa Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (DFDA) has directed all retail pharmacies to display QR codes to facilitate reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) through the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission’s ADR Monitoring System. QR codes must be prominently displayed to enable consumers and healthcare professionals to report ADRs.
Source: urli.info/1jcb0

4. The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, in partnership with NITI Aayog and the Central Tuberculosis Division, will reportedly develop new monographs for the anti-tuberculosis medicines delamanid, pretomanid and the rifapentine-isoniazid fixed-dose combination to enhance quality standards, support rational use and strengthen adverse-drug-reaction reporting.
Source: urli.info/1jcaF

5. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an advisory clarifying stating that honey samples exceeding the permissible 80 mg/kg limit for Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) shall be classified as “Substandard”, not “Unsafe.” The clarification follows the Scientific Panel’s view that current research is insufficient to determine health risks from higher HMF levels.
Source: urli.info/1eoD4