Reward for information on bogus drugs

PANAJI: In a bid to curb the menace of spurious drugs, cosmetics and medical devices, food and drugs administration has offered a scheme to reward informers (whistleblowers) who provide vital information leading to seizure of such fake products.

"The reward can be a maximum of up to 20% of the total cost of consignments seized and up to Rs 25 lakh," says Pramod Jain, director food and drugs administration (FDA). "This will be shared by the informer and the officials carrying out the raid."

Though cases of spurious drugs and devices are not much in Goa, Jain said there are reports of the menace in other parts of the country. "This is due to awareness among people in Goa," Jain said. Explaining further, he said, "It has been found that instead of licensed manufacturers, criminals and those without any antecedents get into this activity," Jain said.

The government of India has taken a stern view of the evil and amended Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 to provide for stringent penalties to offenders. "The punishment to criminals will be stringent and has been increased," Jain said.

Special courts designated to handle cases of spurious drugs and medicines will be set up and these will be expedited.

Source:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com