Marketing practices framework: DoP panel to meet drug lobby groups

The department of pharmaceuticals (DoP) will initiate discussions with pharma lobby groups as it starts to review the regulatory framework on marketing practices in the sector. A high-level committee formed under Niti Aayog's VK Paul will meet representatives of pharma lobby groups this week to review the matter.

"In the meeting as part of stakeholder consultations, the committee has desired to have the view of Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI), Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), Indian Drug Manufactuers' Association (IDMA)," said a notice issued by the DoP on the meeting, which be held on November 4.

Health minister Mansukh Mandaviya had earlier formed the committee after reports that companies were spending exorbitantly on promotion of drugs.

As reported by ET earlier, the committee is contemplating legal action if companies are found to be involved in unethical marketing practices. "The committee has been reviewing the existing practice and what is required to ensure that the rules are followed," said a person in the know.

The five-member committee is chaired by Paul, NITI Aayog member, health; it comprises S Aparna, secretary of the department of pharmaceuticals, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan and Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) chairman Nitin Gupta as members. N Yuvaraj, joint secretary, policy, DoP, is member secretary.

Publicity and promotion by pharma companies is currently covered under the Uniform Code of Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP), the Indian Medical Council Regulations, 2002, and by the Central Board of Direct Taxes.