Daman to Host National Meet on Drug Safety, AI Governance and Narcotics Control

DAMAN: As India intensifies its fight against fake medicines, narcotics and misleading health products, more than 400 drug control officers from across the country will converge in Daman on July 11 for the 4th National Conference of the Drugs Control Officers (India) Welfare Association. Held under the theme “One Nation, One Vision,” the conference aims to strengthen India’s drug regulatory framework through technology, transparency and better coordination.

Senior officials from state Drug Control Departments and the Central Government will deliberate on critical issues, including the regulation of cosmetics and Ayurvedic products, consumer safety, market surveillance, licensing, quality control and stricter enforcement of drug laws.

A key focus will be tackling the growing menace of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, with discussions on intelligence sharing, monitoring suspicious supply chains and improving coordination among enforcement agencies.

“Curbing the illegal trade in narcotic drugs, strengthening law enforcement and ensuring faster exchange of information among agencies will remain at the core of our discussions,” said G. Koteshwar Rao, National President of the Association.

The conference will also explore the use of artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital monitoring, online licensing and risk-based inspections to modernise India’s drug regulatory system and improve public service delivery.

Experts will deliberate on enforcing the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, with a focus on cracking down on misleading advertisements related to medicines and health products.

The event is also expected to chart strategies to combat fake, adulterated and substandard medicines while enhancing the training and capacity of drug control officials nationwide.