AIOCD to hold nationwide strike against online pharmacies in March 2025

 

The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), representing over 10 lakh pharmacists across the country, has declared a nationwide strike in March 2025 against online pharmacies. The protest aims to highlight the detrimental impact of online drug sales on the livelihood of brick-and-mortar chemists and to demand stricter regulations from the government.

J S Shinde, president of AIOCD, stated in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Pharmabiz in Mumbai, "The government introduced an online pharmacy model in 2018 through a notification by amending the Drugs and Cosmetics (D&C) Act. However, this has led to serious issues concerning patient safety, antimicrobial resistance, and regulatory oversight. Online pharmacies operate without proper monitoring by the medical fraternity, which poses a significant risk to public health."

AIOCD has raised multiple concerns over the functioning of online pharmacies, citing violation of the D&C Act. The organisation argues that online pharmacies contradict the principles of the Act, which mandates proper prescription-based drug dispensing.

There is a complete lack of medical oversight, which has led to cases of antibiotic misuse, increasing antimicrobial resistance and endangering patient safety.

Small and independent chemists are facing financial strain due to predatory pricing strategies employed by online pharmacies, including heavy discounts and bulk sales.

While discussing this issue with J S Shinde during the meet,  Convener of the Indian Pharmacist Abhiyan (Kashmir to Kanyakumari) Amitav Joyprakash Choudhury emphasized the urgent need for a central government policy on online pharmacies, stating, "Life-saving drugs are not chocolate and biscuits. Selling online lifesaving drugs affects human life."

Shinde further stated, "Online pharmacies have disrupted the traditional pharmaceutical supply chain. The government must intervene with technological solutions such as e-prescriptions to ensure safe dispensing of medicines."

AIOCD has put forth the following demands to the Union ministry of health and family welfare like immediate regulation of online pharmacies to ensure compliance with existing drug laws.

It has recommended formation of a government committee with representation from AIOCD to draft policies for digital healthcare services, strict enforcement against unauthorized online sales and closure of e-pharmacies violating drug regulations.

It has also recommended implementation of an e-prescription system to regulate digital drug dispensing.

The organisation has warned that if the government fails to address these issues, they will escalate their protest, potentially affecting the nationwide pharmaceutical supply. The strike is expected to disrupt medicine availability in pharmacies across the country, leading to challenges for patients requiring urgent medication.

With over 10 lakh pharmacists supporting the cause, AIOCD is preparing for large-scale protests in multiple cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The movement is also backed by independent drug retailers and trade unions who fear the monopolisation of the pharmaceutical sector by online platforms.

The Union ministry of health and family welfare has yet to respond officially to the AIOCD’s demands. However, sources indicate that discussions may take place with stakeholders to address concerns related to online pharmacies and public health safety. As the March 2025 deadline for the strike approaches, all eyes are on the government’s next steps in regulating digital healthcare services while ensuring fair competition in the pharmaceutical market.

Piyush Goyal urges pharma industry to leverage ANRF fund for innovation at 63rd Annual Day Celebrations of IDMA in Mumbai

 

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, called upon the pharmaceutical sector to take advantage of the recently launched Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) fund to drive innovation and research while speaking at the 63rd Annual Day Celebrations of the Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association (IDMA) in Mumbai themed Innovating Today For Healthier Tomorrow, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on February 8, 2025. Addressing industry leaders, Goyal emphasized that the Rs. 50,000-crore initiative, backed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to strengthen collaboration between research institutions, academia, and the private sector.

“The Anusandhan National Research Foundation is a revolutionary step towards making India a global hub for research and development. I urge the pharmaceutical industry to actively participate in this initiative and harness its potential to bring cutting-edge innovations to the market,” Goyal stated.

The ANRF, established under the ANRF Act 2023, seeks to foster a robust culture of research and innovation across the country. By investing in ANRF and promoting private sector involvement, the government aims to boost India’s position in global innovation rankings and ensure that research translates into economic and societal benefits. The recently presented Union Budget 2024-25 underscores the government’s commitment to advancing scientific endeavors, with significant allocations to the space economy, agricultural research, and nuclear advancements.

Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Anupriya Patel, highlighted the significance of the foundation in enhancing India’s research landscape. “By empowering early career researchers and providing necessary resources, we are building a strong pipeline of innovation that will benefit industries like pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare,” she remarked.

Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the pharmaceutical industry's participation in research initiatives. “India’s pharmaceutical sector has always been at the forefront of global healthcare solutions,” he noted.

He further added, “There is a need for focused interventions in areas like dissolution, assay content, microbial control to improve drug quality.

The Prime Minister’s Early Career Research Grant, a flagship initiative under ANRF, offers up to Rs. 60 lakh plus overheads over three years to support emerging researchers. The program provides flexibility in resource allocation, manpower recruitment, and travel allowances, including international travel for project-related activities. A maximum of 700 grants will be awarded annually across various subject areas, ensuring a steady influx of research-driven advancements.

Goyal emphasized that the ease of doing research measures introduced under ANRF, such as enhanced funding for open access publications, patent filings, and contingency support, will significantly benefit industries reliant on innovation. “With these strategic initiatives, we are creating an ecosystem that fosters ground-breaking research, accelerates scientific advancements, and positions India as a leader in global R&D,” he added.

With the launch of ANRF, India is set to make significant strides in research and innovation, paving the way for transformative discoveries and strengthening its position in the global knowledge economy.

“Our members have successfully ensured that India continues to have the largest number of WHO Prequalified Finished Pharmaceutical Products Manufacturers under various medical verticals and is also rated the largest supplier country of generic drugs by UNICEF,” informed Dr. Viranchi Shah, national president, IDMA.

Daara Patel, secretary general of IDMA convened the proceedings of the Annual Day Celebration.

The Indian pharmaceutical market will reach US$ 65 billion by 2024 and further expand to reach US$ 120-130 billion by 2030. IDMA Members' Export Record approximately 75% in formulations and 85% in APIs. India thus has maintained its global regulatory approval dominance with 700 US FDA Sites. Highest in any country outside the US, 650 EU GMP certified sites and 1800+ WHO GMP certified units.

“Timely and effective representations to Government authorities for quick resolutions of issues and quick response to Members' queries are one of our main strengths,” Dr. Shah added.

 

Global experts gathered for multidisciplinary cancer care townhall "illuminate" hosted by Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai

 

On the occasion of World Cancer Day, the Illuminate Oncology Townhall 2.0, hosted in Mumbai organised by Dr Sewanti Limaye (Convener) from Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital (HN RFH), brought together leading global and Indian experts to explore new advancements in cancer treatments, cutting-edge diagnostic tests, and breakthroughs in immunotherapy and cancer vaccination. With discussions centered on CAR-T cell therapy, novel advanced immunotherapeutics, and emerging cancer vaccines. “Illuminate” symbolized the mission to “enlighten” the oncology community and people on groundbreaking conversations in oncology, mission to elevate the cause of multidisciplinary cancer care and celebrate the power of patient advocacy and patient voice.

Illuminate Oncology Townhall 2.0 brought together pioneering minds from across the globe to discuss advancements in multidisciplinary treatments, precision medicine, and patient-centered cancer care, pioneering efforts in cancer prevention and screening, diagnosis, and treatment through global collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Dr. Tarang Gianchandani, Group CEO, Reliance Healthcare Services and CEO, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, said, “Further to the WHO theme of ‘United by Unique,’ we hosted Illuminate to bring the unique expertise and knowledge of top oncology experts from across the globe to India. The discussions led to a very productive exchange of ideas with experts sharing enlightening insights on multidisciplinary treatments and precision oncology. This is another stride in the hospital’s commitment to provide comprehensive and cutting-edge cancer care. The celebrated experts of our oncology department and top-tier healthcare infrastructure enable best care for patients. ”

Dr. Vijay V. Haribhakti, chair of Oncosciences, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, added, "With cancer cases projected to rise significantly, it is imperative to strengthen our approach through knowledge exchange and collaboration. Illuminate 2.0 provided a space where leading experts could discuss breakthroughs in cancer treatment, such as strategic preventative approaches like tobacco avoidance, screening, and surgical innovations. These conversations will play a key role in shaping the future of oncology care in India and beyond.”

Dr. Sewanti, director of Medical and Precision Oncology, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, and the Convener of Illuminate Oncology Townhall 2.0, a unique and remarkable oncology meeting, highlighted the evolving landscape of cancer treatment, stating, "Through this Oncology Townhall, we wish to bring multidisciplinary cancer care to the forefront of discussion and present it as a mandatory requirement in planning the care for a cancer patient today. We also wish to appeal to the masses to own Cancer Screening efforts and help bring about a revolution in Cancer Prevention. The townhall was focused on discussions on newer diagnostics, novel therapeutics and the recent buzz about advanced immunotherapeutics, cancer vaccinations and cellular therapeutics with specialists from all across the world. It is also a celebration of the ever-powerful patient voice and the contribution of patient advocacy in moving the field forward."

The symposium was honored by the presence of social activist and First Lady of Maharashtra Amruta Fadnavis who inaugurated the event along with Group CEO Dr Tarang Gianchandani, who spoke on the success of the New Health Seva Plan that was launched earlier by Chairperson Nita Mukesh Ambani at the 10th year celebration of Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital.  

The New Health Seva Plan has been designed to provide financial assistance to patients from economically weaker sections, ensuring cervix and breast cancer prevention and access to advanced cancer therapies without financial distress. This initiative reinforces the hospital’s commitment to inclusive and compassionate healthcare.

Mrs Fadnavis also launched the Prostate Cancer Screening program called “Bring Your Dad”, which was conceptualised by Dr Santoshi Nagaonkar, Director of Urology, Uro-oncology, HN RFH.

Led by Dr. Sewanti Limaye, director of Medical and Precision Oncology, the event brought together some of the world’s foremost oncologists alongside India’s leading cancer specialists. Notable attendees included Nobel Laureate Dr. James Allison, Prof. Padmanee Sharma, Prof. Sangeeta Goswami, Prof. Anil Sood and Prof. Seth Lerner from The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA; Prof. Ashutosh Tewari from Mount Sinai, NY; Dr Aditya Shreenivas from City of Hope, USA; Dr Aya El Halali from Hongkong; Prof. Herbert Loong from The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Dr. Shaheenah Dawood from Dubai, Dr. Kumar Prabhash, head of Medical Oncology at Tata Memorial Hospital; Dr Massimo Cristofanilli from Weil Cornell Dr. Andy Gaya from Cromwell Hospital, London, UK; and Padma Shri Dr. Suresh Advani, Mentor, Medical Oncology at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital. The event also features Prof. Sachet Shukla, director of Cancer Vaccines, MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA, along with Dr Prashant Kumar and Datar Genetics who are advancing local cell lysate cancer vaccine development and Prof. Ezra Cohen from UCSD, USA who is world renowned in peptide cancer vaccine development. Dr Swaminathan Iyer from MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA and Dr Hari Parmeshwaran from Medical College of Wisconsin spoke on CAR-T cell therapy and its role in both liquid and solid tumors.

In addition to expert discussions, Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt shared his cancer journey and experiences alongside his doctor, Dr. Sewanti Limaye, and his sister Ex Member of Parliament and cancer activist Priya Dutt and his childhood friend Paresh Ghelani, a passionate advocate for cancer awareness. They also shared his experience with Peptide Cancer Vaccine developed by Prof. Ezra Cohen at UCSD.

With a focus on global expertise, innovation, and patient-centric advancements, Illuminate – The Multidisciplinary Cancer Care Townhall in Mumbai proved to be a landmark event in the field of oncology.

Ozone Forum of India hosts Medical Ozone Longevity Healing Festival

 

The Ozone Forum of India, a division of Bisleri Charitable Trust, successfully organized its landmark 13th Annual International Conference – the Medical Ozone Longevity Healing Festival. The two-day conference, held at Hotel Sea Princess, Mumbai, brought together medical professionals, healthcare experts and enthusiasts to explore groundbreaking developments in ozone therapy and integrative medicine.

Ozone Forum of India is the first and only Ozone Therapy teaching and promoting organisation, whose aim is to provide scientific understanding for health in “holistic totality”. 

As India’s pioneer institute in ozone therapy education and promotion, the Ozone Forum of India facilitated comprehensive discussions on advancing holistic healthcare solutions.  The conference was focusing on knowledge sharing and empowering doctors and health enthusiasts in the latest techniques and technologies of integrated medicine and holistic healing.  It was a confluence of science & healing for improving patient’s health and to provide better healing alternatives.

The event witnessed the participation of distinguished guests - Ramesh Chauhan, chairman – Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. and Bisleri Charitable Trust), Dr. D.R. Kaarthikeyan, Ex-director CBI-DG NHRC, advisor, Ozone Forum of India, M. Manickam, chairman – Sakthi Sugars Ltd. and Ozone Promotor, G.D. Rajkumar, director – Gedee Weiler and Ozone Promotor, Dr. Lamberto Re, chairman of the Scientific Advisory Committee, World Federation of Ozone Therapy, Dr. Patana Teng Umnuay, dean of College of Integrative Medicine at Dhurakij Pundit University and CEO of Health Education & Academics Thailand), Dr. Mili Shah, president – Ozone Forum of India and Trustee – Bisleri Charitable Trust and Dr. Jignasha Captain, director – Ozone Forum of India. 

The conference was focused in laying out the scientific approach of Ozone Therapy in treatment of different diseases.  The distinguished speakers elaborated Ozone Therapy’s benefits in treating a wide range of health disorders, from chronic conditions like infected wounds, circulatory disorders, and age-related conditions to more serious diseases such as macular degeneration, viral infections, arthritis, cancer, Covid-19, diabetes, circulatory disorders, tuberculosis, etc. Ozone Therapy has thus shown pain relief and healing to countless individuals, proving its immense potential to revolutionize the way we approach healthcare.

The conference began with an engaging keynote by Dr. Re, who provided valuable insights into the clinical applications of medical ozone, highlighting its safety and versatility in treating a range of pathological conditions. The next day, Dr. Umnuay delivered an intriguing talk on the fascinating world of Mitochondrial Bioenergetics.

Dr. Mili Shah, President of Ozone Forum of India and Trustee of Bisleri Charitable Trust, highlighted the vast possibilities of Ozone Therapy and thanked the medical fraternity for attending the conference in her statement, “The conference witnessed diverse perspectives on revolutionary healthcare approaches, from epigenetics and DNA methylation to integrated oncology and pain management. The discussions delved deep into crucial areas including gut healing, infectious disease protocols, autism, neurodevelopmental diseases, cognitive frailty, gynecological disorders, dentistry, and diabetes management. I am grateful to the entire medical fraternity for their overwhelming participation in making our 13th Annual Conference a resounding success. As of today, we have trained more than 3,500 doctors in India & other Asian countries.”

Ramesh Chauhan, chairman of Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. and Bisleri Charitable Trust, in his speech emphasized that, “We are committed to promoting safe and effective use of Ozone Therapy.  In the last few years, Ozone therapy has shown remarkable results in medical and wellness therapies.  We have our own state-of-the-art Ozone Centre in Bisleri, where we offer this therapy at cost-effective solutions to health problems.  In future, we will be interested in more research and clinical developments.”

Dr. D.R. Kaarthikeyan in his comment said that “As a patron and a strong believer of integrated medicine, meditation more than medicine and peace for world I believe that selfcare is the important tool to keep our society healthy and only healthy society can build a strong nation, so I urge all to join the movement of being healthy and happy.  It is our shared responsibility to unite and explore the full potential of Ozone Therapy, ensuring its widespread benefits for the public.”

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to advancing research, education, and practical applications of ozone therapy, promising a future where traditional wisdom meets modern medical science for optimal patient care.

With a legacy of over 54 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

 

 

SHILPIIY - An Entrepreneurial Journey of Uttarakhand Local Artisans For ...

What does the SHILPIIY Coffee Table Book offer to the world? How does the initiative help develop entrepreneurship in the hill state? The book offers a lovely introduction to the artisans of Uttarakhand, giving an insightful look into their entrepreneurial journeys and the roles their crafts play in their lives. The book introduces diverse artisans whose work was previously unknown, providing a valuable glimpse into the details of their stories, their crafts, and the unique communities they represent. Compiled with informative text and 300 photographs, the book also offers a brief history of Uttarakhand and its culture written by the world-renowned historian and Padma Shri Dr. Shekhar Pathak. This book is an outcome of almost three decades of surveying and collecting handicrafts and local produce, and it also documents the efforts of the unsung craftsmen.

The SHILPIIY Coffee Table Book is a lovely introduction to the artisans of Uttarakhand, offering an insightful look into their entrepreneurial journey and the role their crafts play in their lives. The book introduces a diverse group of artisans whose work is otherwise unknown, providing a valuable glimpse into the details of their stories, their craft, and the unique communities they represent.

I think this initiative is a great opportunity to help those who live in the Uttarakhand region grow economically. Introducing the artisans of the Hill state to the world through this coffee table book is a good start. It is also a good idea to help entrepreneurship grow in the region.

AI is transforming pharmacy by enhancing patient care and medication safety: Dr Steven Chen

 Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field of pharmacy, reshaping drug development, patient care, and medication distribution, states Dr. Steven Chen, Pharm D, FASHP, FCSHP, FNAP, associate dean for clinical affairs at the University of Southern California (USC) Alfred E. Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences while emphasizing the significant role AI is already playing in patient care.

“While much of the focus on AI in pharmacy has been on accelerating drug discovery—such as identifying new molecular entities, repurposing existing medications, and reducing overall costs—AI is also making a profound impact on pharmacy practice, improving patient safety and health outcomes,” Dr. Chen explains.

"When given sufficient data, AI is used to predict or identify patients at high risk for adverse health outcomes, requiring a commensurate level of care and intervention," says Dr. Chen. AI-driven Remote Therapeutic Monitoring and Remote Patient Monitoring are being increasingly utilized to analyse health trends, providing critical insights to both patients and healthcare providers.

Moreover, AI can assess social determinants of health—factors such as economic stability, education, and living conditions—to uncover social needs that impact a patient’s ability to achieve optimal health. "With sufficient data, AI can evaluate these determinants to ensure that underlying social issues are addressed, improving overall health outcomes," Dr. Chen explains.

Looking ahead, the integration of AI into digital therapeutics will provide real-time feedback to both patients and healthcare professionals. This innovation will help tailor treatment plans, optimize medication therapy, and improve patient adherence to prescribed regimens.

On the medication distribution side, AI enhances efficiency and safety, ensuring that patients receive the right medications faster. "Rather than replace the patient care role of pharmacists, AI will help pharmacists focus on the most challenging patient needs that require in-depth personalized evaluation, empathy, and patient-specific treatment plans," Dr. Chen notes. This includes making treatment adjustments, continuous monitoring, and providing education on self-management.

AI is essential in addressing the challenges posed by the US healthcare system, where high-quality, individualized medication therapy is crucial for improved patient outcomes. Additionally, in large countries such as India, where healthcare accessibility remains a concern, AI can play a transformative role in reaching patients who require better medication management and results.

As AI continues to evolve, its applications in pharmacy will expand, further strengthening the profession’s ability to deliver safe, effective, and patient-centred care. Dr. Chen underscores the importance of embracing AI in pharmacy: "AI in pharmacy is not just an innovation—it is a necessity to improve healthcare and medication outcomes worldwide."

“With AI-driven advancements, pharmacists will be better equipped to provide personalized care, ensuring patients receive the right medications at the right time while maintaining the human touch that is essential to patient-centred healthcare,” Dr Chen concludes.