News for 'Department of Pharmaceuticals'

Supreme Court asks Centre: Why not cap margins on all medicines?

Supreme Court asks Centre: Why not cap margins on all medicines?

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

The Supreme Court has questioned the Centre's decision to cap trade margins on anti-cancer drugs at 30 per cent, asking why similar restrictions could not be extended to other medicines and medical consumables, citing glaring disparities between procurement costs and maximum retail prices (MRPs).

Two Indians charged with selling fake Ozempic in US

Two Indians charged with selling fake Ozempic in US

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Two Indian nationals have been charged in a US federal court for their alleged involvement in a transnational scheme to distribute counterfeit Ozempic, a popular diabetes drug. The scheme involved obtaining fake drugs from China, deceptive packaging, and continued even after FDA warnings, with the accused facing significant jail time if convicted.

Key Accomplice Arrested In Major Counterfeit Drug Racket

Key Accomplice Arrested In Major Counterfeit Drug Racket

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Police in Bengaluru have arrested Balasubramanian, a partner in DM Pharma, in connection with an interstate counterfeit drug racket. This arrest follows the apprehension of alleged kingpin Prashanth Rajan Babu. The Special Investigation Team is probing the supply chain, financial transactions, and distribution channels of fake medicines worth nearly Rs 5 crore, which were being relabelled as premium brands.

IIT Madras Breakthrough: Chemical-Free Surface Fights Superbugs

IIT Madras Breakthrough: Chemical-Free Surface Fights Superbugs

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

Researchers at IIT Madras have patented a chemical-free antibacterial surface that physically eliminates harmful bacteria, including "superbugs," without relying on antibiotics or disinfectants. This innovative technology uses specially engineered nanostructures to rupture bacterial cell walls, offering a sustainable solution to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) for biomedical and public health applications.

'Sword to kill mosquito': HC raps Maha FDA over Cadila drug action

'Sword to kill mosquito': HC raps Maha FDA over Cadila drug action

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

The Bombay High Court has strongly criticised the Maharashtra FDA for its "shoot first" approach, likening its drastic actions to using a sword to kill a mosquito. The court, hearing a petition from Cadila Pharmaceuticals, directed the FDA to grant companies a hearing before taking severe measures, warning of heavy costs for its arbitrary conduct.

India sees Rs 4,896 crore FDI in 29 projects after easing China stake norms

India sees Rs 4,896 crore FDI in 29 projects after easing China stake norms

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

India has attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) worth approximately 4,896 crore across 29 projects since May, following the government's relaxation of norms under Press Note 2 of 2026. The revised rules permit investment without government approval from entities with up to 10 per cent non-controlling ownership by land-bordering countries.

MutAIverse: AI Breakthrough In Decoding Cancer's Origins

MutAIverse: AI Breakthrough In Decoding Cancer's Origins

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Researchers at Delhi's Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology have developed 'MutAIverse', a generative AI platform designed to decode DNA damage and identify potential causes of cancer. Tested on head and neck cancer patients in Guwahati, the platform successfully traced exposure to smokeless tobacco as a contributing factor. This innovation aims to shift focus from just diagnosis to understanding causative factors, potentially aiding in prevention and protection.

Govt Clears Cancer Drug Price Hike

Govt Clears Cancer Drug Price Hike

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

'While higher prices may create some financial burden for patients and caregivers in the short term, uninterrupted access to treatment remains the greater priority.'

Large Codeine Cough Syrup Consignment Seized In Uttar Pradesh

Large Codeine Cough Syrup Consignment Seized In Uttar Pradesh

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Authorities in Uttar Pradesh's Gonda district have seized a large consignment of codeine-based cough syrup, prompting an investigation into its procurement and intended distribution. The seizure led to a halt in sales as officials examine records and supply chain details to verify the legality of the transaction.

Chinese API price surge tests India's pharma buffers amid West Asia crisis

Chinese API price surge tests India's pharma buffers amid West Asia crisis

Rediff.com2 May 2026

India's pharmaceutical industry is experiencing increased bulk drug prices, particularly for APIs from China, following the escalation of the West Asia crisis in March. While current inventories provide a temporary buffer, concerns are mounting over the availability of key solvents and feedstocks, potentially leading to manufacturing disruptions and shortages in specific drug categories.

Success For Drug-Free J-K Campaign As Hundreds Arrested

Success For Drug-Free J-K Campaign As Hundreds Arrested

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The 100-day 'drug-free J-K campaign' has achieved significant success across the Union Territory, leading to numerous arrests, seizures of narcotics, and demolition of properties linked to drug peddlers.

Gurugram Busts Racket Making Fake Diabetes Injections

Gurugram Busts Racket Making Fake Diabetes Injections

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Authorities in Gurugram have uncovered a racket involved in the manufacturing and sale of fake Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injections, used for treating diabetes and obesity. Two people have been arrested, and a nationwide alert has been issued to trace counterfeit batches.

Indian Investments in US Rise, Create American Jobs: Official

Indian Investments in US Rise, Create American Jobs: Official

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Indian foreign direct investment (FDI) in the United States has reached approximately USD 16.4 billion, supporting around 70,800 jobs and contributing significantly to research and development, according to US Deputy Undersecretary Brandon Remington.

Interstate Spurious Drug Racket Busted In Delhi

Interstate Spurious Drug Racket Busted In Delhi

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Delhi Police have arrested four individuals involved in an interstate racket manufacturing and distributing counterfeit prescription drugs, uncovering an illegal processing unit in Delhi.

India's FDI Inflows Set to Cross $90 Billion in FY26, Says DPIIT Secretary

India's FDI Inflows Set to Cross $90 Billion in FY26, Says DPIIT Secretary

Rediff.com3 May 2026

India's foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows are projected to surpass $90 billion in 2025-26 (FY26), driven by robust policy reforms, free trade agreements, and strong economic growth, according to DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia.

Himachal Pradesh Government To Take Strong Action Against Drug Smugglers

Himachal Pradesh Government To Take Strong Action Against Drug Smugglers

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Himachal Pradesh government is set to implement stringent measures, including mandatory drug testing for government jobs and 'bulldozer action' against drug smugglers, to combat the growing menace of 'chitta' (adulterated heroin) in the state.

India-Sweden Project Uses AI to Fight Pneumonia

India-Sweden Project Uses AI to Fight Pneumonia

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

A new research collaboration between India and Sweden is using artificial intelligence to accelerate the discovery of peptide-based therapeutics for pneumonia, aiming to shorten drug development timelines and combat drug-resistant infections.

TN special teams to monitor drug firms after cough syrup deaths

TN special teams to monitor drug firms after cough syrup deaths

Rediff.com17 Oct 2025

Tamil Nadu has formed special teams to monitor drug manufacturers after deaths of infants in Madhya Pradesh were linked to a cough syrup made by a Tamil Nadu-based company. Inspections are being conducted at pharmaceutical firms across the state.

Blow to Trump as US Supreme Court strikes down his sweeping tariffs

Blow to Trump as US Supreme Court strikes down his sweeping tariffs

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The verdict marks a notable shift from a series of recent wins for Trump at the Supreme Court.

Gold, Silver Surge Pushes Jan Import Bill Up

Gold, Silver Surge Pushes Jan Import Bill Up

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

Gold imports climbed 349.22 per cent to $12.07 billion in January, while silver imports rose 127 per cent to $2 billion.

Supreme Court's ruling on tariffs is deeply disappointing: Trump

Supreme Court's ruling on tariffs is deeply disappointing: Trump

Rediff.com21 Feb 2026

The ruling is expected to have wide-ranging consequences for global trade, businesses, consumers, inflation trends and household finances across the country.

Tariffs cut, $30tn market: India, US unveil interim trade pact

Tariffs cut, $30tn market: India, US unveil interim trade pact

Rediff.com8 Feb 2026

The agreement addresses non-tariff barriers and promotes increased trade in technology products and cooperation between the two countries.

Budget 2026 boosts healthcare spend, drugs relief

Budget 2026 boosts healthcare spend, drugs relief

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

The government on Sunday gave a strong push to upgradation and expansion of healthcare infrastructure, medical education and pharma sector with the Union Budget 2026-27 announcing a slew of steps, including those aimed at making India a global hub for allied healthcare professionals and biopharma manufacturing.

TN govt revokes license for Coldrif cough syrup; shuts down firm

TN govt revokes license for Coldrif cough syrup; shuts down firm

Rediff.com13 Oct 2025

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) raided premises linked to Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of Coldrif cough syrup linked to the deaths of children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, and top officials of the Tamil Nadu FDA as part of a money laundering investigation.

UP cracks down on illegal cough syrup trade, 75 arrested

UP cracks down on illegal cough syrup trade, 75 arrested

Rediff.com20 Dec 2025

Uttar Pradesh authorities have registered 74 cases and arrested 75 people in connection with the illegal storage and sale of codeine-based cough syrup. A minister alleges links to the Samajwadi Party and an SIT is investigating.

Coldrif syrup maker used industrial-grade materials: ED

Coldrif syrup maker used industrial-grade materials: ED

Rediff.com3 Dec 2025

An Enforcement Directorate (ED) probe has revealed that the manufacturer of Coldrif syrup, linked to the deaths of at least 20 children in Madhya Pradesh, used industrial-grade raw materials without quality checks. The investigation also found that Tamil Nadu Drugs Control Department officials were in frequent contact with the company but failed to conduct mandated inspections.

Where The Deadly Cough Syrup Was Made

Where The Deadly Cough Syrup Was Made

Rediff.com18 Oct 2025

Sandwiched between a Hero MotoCorp showroom and a shop that hires out cooking utensils is a small, dingy building that's been locked up. The non-descript two-room building is a manufacturing unit of Sresan Pharmaceuticals, the pharma company made its Coldriff cough syrup that has allegedly killed 25 children in Madhya Pradesh.

Trump slaps 100% tariffs on imported pharma products

Trump slaps 100% tariffs on imported pharma products

Rediff.com26 Sep 2025

United States President Donald Trump on Friday announced that his administration will impose a 100 per cent tariff on branded and patented pharmaceutical products beginning October 1, 2025, unless the manufacturing companies are building production facilities in the US.

Will India continue to remain an attractive FDI destination in 2026?

Will India continue to remain an attractive FDI destination in 2026?

Rediff.com27 Dec 2025

FDI inflows into India are expected to register robust growth in 2026, supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals, big-ticket investment announcements, sustained efforts to improve the ease of doing business, and a new generation of investment-linked trade pacts.

Cough syrup deaths: Many states ban Coldrif; MP suspends officials

Cough syrup deaths: Many states ban Coldrif; MP suspends officials

Rediff.com7 Oct 2025

A special investigation team (SIT) has been formed in Madhya Pradesh to investigate the deaths of 14 children in Chhindwara, suspected to be linked to a toxic cough syrup. The investigation includes arrests, exhumations, and a ban on the implicated cough syrup.

Cough syrup kills 14 children in MP, doctor arrested

Cough syrup kills 14 children in MP, doctor arrested

Rediff.com5 Oct 2025

Police have arrested a doctor for alleged negligence and registered a case against the manufacturer of a 'toxic' cough syrup after the death of 14 children in Chhindwara due to suspected renal failure, officials said on Sunday.

Govt Targets 100 Products For Aatmanirbhar Push

Govt Targets 100 Products For Aatmanirbhar Push

Rediff.com16 Sep 2025

'Our endeavour will be that we identify these products, put them in the public domain so that the manufacturers can look at them and give a boost to Make in India.'

Cough Medicine Deaths: Rajasthan Suspends Drug Controller

Cough Medicine Deaths: Rajasthan Suspends Drug Controller

Rediff.com4 Oct 2025

The Rajasthan government has suspended the state drug controller and halted the distribution of medicines manufactured by Kaysons Pharma following reports of children's deaths allegedly linked to contaminated cough syrup.

Maharashtra FDA warns against THIS cough syrup

Maharashtra FDA warns against THIS cough syrup

Rediff.com6 Oct 2025

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Monday appealed to the people to immediately stop the sale or use of a specific batch of Coldrif syrup, following child deaths in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan allegedly linked to the medicine.

TN, MP ban Coldrif cough syrup after child deaths

TN, MP ban Coldrif cough syrup after child deaths

Rediff.com4 Oct 2025

The toll in the case reached nine in Madhya Pradesh while media reports said of two infants died in Rajasthan.

200% spike in gold import drives India's trade deficit to $41.68 billion

200% spike in gold import drives India's trade deficit to $41.68 billion

Rediff.com22 Nov 2025

India's merchandise trade deficit widened to a record $41.68 billion in October, as gold imports trebled and outbound shipments registered their sharpest contraction in 14 months, according to data released by the commerce department.

Deadly cough syrup toll rises to 20 in MP; Kerala bans Sresan medicines

Deadly cough syrup toll rises to 20 in MP; Kerala bans Sresan medicines

Rediff.com8 Oct 2025

Madhya Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla confirmed that 20 children have died after consuming contaminated cough syrup. An investigation is underway, and action has been taken against the manufacturer, doctor, and FDA officials.

Cough syrup deaths: IMA slams doctor's arrest

Cough syrup deaths: IMA slams doctor's arrest

Rediff.com7 Oct 2025

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has defended a doctor arrested in connection with cough syrup deaths in Madhya Pradesh, attributing the incident to failures in the drugs regulatory system.

Cough syrup deaths: Pharma co to face criminal action

Cough syrup deaths: Pharma co to face criminal action

Rediff.com8 Oct 2025

Tamil Nadu Government will take criminal action against a drug manufacturer, whose cough syrup has been banned in the wake of children's deaths in Madhya Pradesh, state minister Ma Subramanian said here on Wednesday.

India relationship...: What Rubio said after Jaishankar meet

India relationship...: What Rubio said after Jaishankar meet

Rediff.com23 Sep 2025

Rubio voiced "appreciation" for New Delhi's continued engagement on bilateral issues, including trade, defence and energy.