Govt Slashes Prices of 41 Crucial Drugs, Easing Burden On Patients

New Delhi: In a move aimed at making essential healthcare more affordable, the Indian government has significantly reduced the prices of 41 commonly used medicines and six formulations for chronic diseases. This price cut involves a wide range of medications, including those used to treat diabetes, heart conditions, liver ailments, indigestion and infections.

The decision, announced by the Department of Pharmaceuticals and National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), is a major relief for millions of Indians battling chronic illnesses. India has the world’s second-highest number of diabetes patients and this price reduction is expected to particularly benefit the over 10 crore people living with the condition in the country.

“Ensuring affordable access to essential medicines is a top priority for the government,” said a spokesperson for the Department of Pharmaceuticals. “This price cut will significantly reduce the financial burden on patients and their families.”

The NPPA has mandated pharmaceutical companies to immediately inform dealers and stockists about the revised prices. This ensures patients experience the cost reduction as soon as possible.

This price reduction comes on the heels of another initiative by the Department of Pharmaceuticals last month. In April, they released revised ceiling prices for over 900 scheduled drug formulations and brought down retail prices for 65 essential medications.