Central Government Proposes New Import Locations in 5 States for Drugs, Medical Devices and Cosmetics

The Union Health Ministry has pro The Health Ministry has proposed changes to the list of authorised entry points for importing drugs and medical devices into India. posed adding new locations to India's authorised import network for drugs, medical devices and cosmetics, according to a Business Standard news report.  

The list includes inland container depots in five states, a special economic zone in Karnataka and an international airport in Uttar Pradesh. 

Changes to Rule 43A 

The proposal seeks to amend Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, which specifies the ports, airports, railway stations, road crossings and other entry points through which drugs can be imported into India. 

A gazette notification issued by the ministry lists the proposed additions across Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana and Karnataka. The amendment would allow consignments to enter through these locations once they are formally included in the authorised network. 

List of New Import Gateways 

In Haryana, the proposed locations are Inland Container Depots (ICDs) at Sonipat, Piyala and Harsaru. Dadri in Uttar Pradesh and Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat are also included. 

The list further covers Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur in Hyderabad, along with Whitefield in Bengaluru. The ministry has also proposed adding the Bommasandra Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Karnataka. 

For imports by air, Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh has been included in the proposal. These additions cover different modes of cargo movement and clearance. 

Reason Behind the Expansion 

The ministry said the additional entry points would allow importers to clear consignments closer to their manufacturing facilities, warehouses and distribution centres. This could reduce the distance goods need to travel after entering the country and lower inland transportation costs. 

The proposal also addresses delays in the movement of imported medicines, medical devices and cosmetics. The ministry said the changes are intended to reduce clearance and transportation delays and improve the availability of these products across regions. 

Stakeholders Can Submit Objections 

The existing network already includes ICDs at Dhannad and Tihi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, along with notified airports. 

The ministry has invited objections and suggestions on the proposed amendment. Stakeholders can send their submissions to the Under Secretary (Drugs Regulation), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. 

The proposed additions will expand the list of recognised import locations if the amendment is approved. 

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Conclusion  

Stakeholders can submit their objections and suggestions to the Health Ministry. The proposed locations will be added to the authorised network subject to the amendment process. 

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