Manipur expands controlled drug distribution network with 42 Schedule X licences in Kangpokpi

In a significant move aimed at strengthening the regulated pharmaceutical sector and enhancing compliance with drug control regulations, 42 licences for the sale, stocking, exhibition for sale and distribution of Schedule X drugs were distributed to beneficiaries during a ceremony held at LNC Hotel in Kangpokpi on Wednesday, June 3.

The programme was organised by the Chemist & Druggist Association Kangpokpi District and attended by Drug Inspector In-Charge of Kangpokpi District David Letgoulien Gangte, representatives of local civil bodies, pharmacy owners and members of the association.

The licences were issued by the Directorate of Health Services, Manipur, through the Licensing and Controlling Authority under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945.

According to the association, 25 beneficiaries received Wholesale Drug Licences authorising them to sell, stock, exhibit for sale, offer for sale and distribute Schedule X drugs at the wholesale level. The remaining 17 beneficiaries were granted Retail Drug Licences, enabling them to sell, stock, exhibit for sale and distribute Schedule X drugs through authorised retail establishments.

Speaking at the programme, Chemist & Druggist Association Kangpokpi District President Hencha Kipgen highlighted that Schedule X drugs comprise a highly regulated category of medicines, including certain habit-forming and psychotropic pharmaceutical products. He noted that their manufacture, storage, sale and distribution are governed by stringent statutory controls.

Kipgen stated that under existing regulations, the sale of such medicines is permitted only through licensed entities and requires mandatory record maintenance, prescription-based dispensing and strict adherence to regulatory conditions designed to prevent misuse, diversion and illegal trafficking.

Addressing the gathering, Drug Inspector In-Charge David Letgoulien Gangte stressed the importance of transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical supply chain. He said the issuance of the licences reflected the government's commitment to ensuring that drug commerce operates within the legal framework and that medicines are dispensed only through authorised and regulated channels.

Gangte formally handed over the licences to the beneficiaries in the presence of office-bearers of the Chemist & Druggist Association Kangpokpi District. Association leaders described the development as a major milestone for the district's pharmaceutical community.

They said the initiative would facilitate lawful business operations, strengthen regulatory compliance and improve public access to medicines through licensed establishments. The association further observed that the issuance of licences would promote professional standards among chemists and druggists while enhancing monitoring mechanisms against the unauthorised sale of controlled medicines.

The association also expressed confidence that the initiative would contribute to safer pharmaceutical practices and reinforce public trust in the healthcare delivery system.

The programme concluded with an appeal to all licence holders to strictly comply with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules, maintain prescribed records and ensure that Schedule X drugs are handled in accordance with all legal safeguards and regulatory requirements.