National Pharmacy Commission Bill

National Pharmacy Commission Bill

News: The Union Health Ministry has sought comments from the general public on the proposed National Pharmacy Commission Bill, 2023.

Background:
• The bill aims to replace the Pharmacy Act, of 1948, and the existing Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) with the forward-looking National Pharmacy Commission.

Key Provisions:
• The primary objective of the bill is to elevate pharmacy education by enhancing access to affordable, highquality learning opportunities.
• To make pharmacy services accessible to all, fostering equitable healthcare delivery across the nation.
• The bill advocates for regular, transparent assessments of pharmacy institutions, the establishment of a national pharmacy register, and the flexibility to adapt to evolving healthcare needs. It also introduces an effective grievance redressal mechanism.
• The proposed Bill encourages pharmacy professionals to adopt latest pharmacy research in their work and to contribute to research.

National Pharmacy Commission (Composition)
• The head office of the commission shall be at New Delhi.
• It shall consists of a Chairperson, thirteen ex officio Members and Fourteen part- time members.

About Pharmacy Council of India:
• The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) is a statutory body, established under the Pharmacy Act, 1948.
• It functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
• It is constituted by the central government every five years.