The Health Ministry has proposed adding ICDs, an SEZ and an airport to Rule 43A’s authorised import locations.
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed an amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, to expand the network of authorised entry points for the import of drugs, medical devices and cosmetics. The proposal aims to facilitate smoother import operations, improve logistics efficiency and strengthen the supply chain for healthcare products.
Rule 43A specifies the authorised ports, airports, railway stations, road crossings and other entry points through which drugs may be imported into India. The Ministry has proposed adding more Inland Container Depots (ICDs), a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and an international airport to the list.
The proposed locations are ICD Sonipat, Piyala and Harsaru in Haryana; ICD Dadri in Uttar Pradesh; ICD Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat; ICD Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur in Hyderabad, Telangana; ICD Whitefield in Bengaluru, Karnataka; SEZ Bommasandra in Karnataka; and Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh for the import of drugs by air.
The expansion is expected to let importers clear consignments closer to their manufacturing facilities, warehouses and distribution centres. This is likely to reduce inland transportation distances, optimise logistics costs and minimise delays in the movement of imported consignments.
Source: Press Information Bureau
