Zahoor Ragi
Srinagar, Apr 26: In line with the directives of Controller Drugs Lotika Khujuria and Joint Controller Drugs Irfana Ahmad, the Department of Drug Controller in Jammu & Kashmir launched an extensive five-day special drive to enforce the implementation of CCTV and computerized billing systems (CBS) in chemist shops across the region.
Led by Assistant Drugs Controller Reema Gizala in Srinagar, the team, comprising Drug Control Officers Sameer Sajad, Zulifkar, Junaid, Nahida, and Shaila, conducted inspections from April 15th to April 23rd, 2024. A total of 79 establishments were inspected in various zones, including prominent hospitals and pharmacies. During the drive, 24 medical shops were immediately directed to cease operations due to non-compliance, while 08 suspended shops promptly implemented the required systems within a day.
Similar drives were carried out in districts Pulwama, Kulgam, and Baramulla/Kupwara, aiming to ensure the installation of computerized billing systems in all retail outlets stocking formulations prone to misuse. In Pulwama, 41 establishments were inspected, resulting in notices to 09 firms to install CBS within 02 days. In Kulgam, surprise inspections of 18 retail establishments were conducted, with most found to have implemented the required systems. One shop was suspended for non-compliance, prompting others to swiftly adopt the necessary measures.
In Baramulla/Kupwara, around 20 retail drug sale establishments were thoroughly checked, with two shops suspended for violations of the Act. Throughout these drives, owners and employees were sensitized to the importance of adhering to regulatory laws and adopting digital billing systems.
Under the supervision of Joint Controller Drugs Irfana Ahmad, these drives not only ensured compliance with regulations but also raised awareness about the growing addiction among youth and the necessity of transitioning to digital billing systems. The Department of Drug Controller remains committed to enforcing these measures to safeguard public health and ensure transparency in pharmaceutical transactions across Jammu & Kashmir.