DCC Approves Real-Time Digital Portal to Track NDPS-Regulated Pharma Products

New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at tightening regulatory oversight over controlled pharmaceutical substances, the Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) has approved a proposal for the development of a centralized, real-time digital portal to track pharmaceutical products regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS Act).

The matter was discussed at the 68th meeting of the DCC held on March 20, 2026, through virtual mode.

The committee was apprised of the urgent need for a centralized, real-time, end-to-end digital tracking mechanism for the manufacture, import/export, sale/distribution, stock, etc., of pharmaceutical Products regulated under the NDPS Act.

DCC also deliberated about the proposed scope of the digital portal, key functional features, regulatory and legal considerations, the role of CDSCO and State Drug Regulatory Authorities, Implementation Strategy and its anticipated benefits.

After detailed deliberation, DCC approved the proposal.

It further recommended that the CDSCO hold consultations with the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN), which currently operates a portal for manufacturing units dealing with controlled substances.

Regarding the above, it opined,

"A meeting of CDSCO may be held with CBN on the matter, as CBN presently maintains a portal for the manufacturing units."

Additionally, the DCC also recommended that once this portal is developed, access may be provided to all the concerned agencies for effective surveillance and monitoring.