How Did India Move Up to 8th Place in WHO Pharmacovigilance Contributions?
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Synopsis
India has made a significant leap in global health standards by moving from 123rd to 8th place in WHO pharmacovigilance contributions. This achievement, highlighted by Union Minister J. P. Nadda, marks a pivotal moment in India's commitment to patient safety and pharmaceutical excellence.
Key Takeaways
- India's ranking in WHO pharmacovigilance has improved significantly.
- New Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 includes 121 new monographs.
- Strengthened standards in critical therapeutic areas.
- International recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia in 19 countries.
- Commitment to patient safety and quality assurance is paramount.
New Delhi, Jan 2 (NationPress) India has impressively climbed to 8th position globally from 123rd in the World Health Organization's (WHO) pharmacovigilance contributions, as stated by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J. P. Nadda on Friday.
During the unveiling of the Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 (IP 2026) - the 10th edition of India's official drug standards book - held at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi, he expressed pride in this achievement.
According to Nadda, the Indian Pharmacopoeia serves as the official standards manual for medicines in India, forming a crucial part of the country's regulatory framework for pharmaceuticals. He emphasized that the 10th edition showcases scientific progress, adherence to global best practices, and India's expanding leadership in pharmaceutical manufacturing and regulatory affairs.
Nadda further underscored the significant advancements made by the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) under the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC).
“India was ranked 123rd globally in pharmacovigilance contributions from 2009 to 2014, and it has now ascended to 8th position worldwide as of 2025,” the Health Minister noted.
He pointed out that the Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 now includes 121 new monographs, bringing the total to 3,340.
“The expansion significantly enhances coverage across vital therapeutic areas, such as anti-tubercular, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer medications, as well as iron supplements. This ensures more comprehensive standardization of medicines utilized in various National Health Programmes,” said Nadda.
He commended the IPC and the PvPI team for their remarkable accomplishment, stating that the enhanced pharmacovigilance system reflects India's ongoing commitment to patient safety, quality assurance, and effective regulatory oversight.
“Recently, the Indian Pharmacopoeia standards have gained international recognition, becoming a key agenda in the health diplomacy of the Government of India. Currently, the Indian Pharmacopoeia is acknowledged in 19 countries within the global south,” he added.
Moreover, the Minister highlighted notable regulatory developments, including the first-time inclusion of 20 blood component monographs concerning transfusion medicine in the Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026, aligning with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics (Second Amendment) Rules, 2020.
Point of View
It is vital to acknowledge India's rapid advancements in the field of pharmacovigilance. This leap from 123rd to 8th position illustrates the nation's commitment to enhancing drug safety and regulatory frameworks, benefiting not just India but also global health standards.
NationPress
03/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pharmacovigilance?
Pharmacovigilance refers to the science and activities related to the detection, assessment, understanding, and prevention of adverse effects or any other drug-related problems.
Why is the Indian Pharmacopoeia important?
The Indian Pharmacopoeia provides official standards for medicines in India, ensuring quality and safety in pharmaceuticals.
How does India rank in global pharmacovigilance now?
India has improved its ranking from 123rd to 8th in global pharmacovigilance contributions as reported by the WHO.
What are monographs in the Indian Pharmacopoeia?
Monographs are detailed descriptions of a drug's standards, including its composition, dosage, and quality requirements.
How many new monographs were added in the Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026?
The Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 includes 121 new monographs, bringing the total to 3,340.
