Health Ministry Allows Pharmacy Council of India Access to Aadhaar-Based Attendance System

Pharmacy Council of India can access the attendance data of officials, faculty and students of the Pharmacy Council of India-approved pharmacy colleges online from the centralised Aadhar Enabled Biometric Attendance System. Further, PCI must adhere to the provisions of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, rules, regulations, or guidelines made thereunder and directions issued with respect to the use of Aadhaar authentication as laid down by the Unique Identification Authority of India or Central Government.

India Cracks Down on Unapproved Drug Exports

Communications have been sent to all State Drugs Control Authorities and Zonal Offices to immediately withdraw Export No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and Manufacturing Licenses granted for any combination of Tapentadol and Carisoprodol. Similar communications have been sent to Customs offices at notified ports to route all consignments of these products through CDSCO Port offices.

India Launches Nationwide Campaign for 100% NCD Screening of Adults

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched an “Intensified Special NCD Screening Campaign” to combat the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The initiative, running from February 20th to March 31st, 2025, aims to achieve 100% screening coverage for all individuals aged 30 and above for prevalent NCDs.

Madhya Pradesh to Host World AIDS Day 2024 Celebrations

Aligned with the global theme of “Take the Rights Path,” the event will emphasize the importance of human rights-based approaches to HIV prevention, treatment, and care. It will highlight the progress made in India’s fight against HIV/AIDS and the ongoing efforts to eliminate stigma and discrimination associated with the disease.

World Diabetes Day and National Cancer Awareness Day

On November 7th each year, India observed National Cancer Awareness Day, an initiative that aims to raise awareness about the growing cancer burden in the country and inspire action towards prevention, early detection, and treatment. Additionally, World Diabetes Day, observed annually on November 14th, highlights the global challenge of diabetes and the urgent need for preventive measures and effective treatment.

New Recruitment Rules for Medical Device Regulatory Positions

The rules specify the number, classification, and pay level for various medical device regulatory positions. The method of recruitment, age limit, qualifications, and other eligibility criteria for each post are also outlined. Existing employees in relevant positions will be deemed to have been appointed under these new rules.

Revised Operational Guidelines and Training Manual of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is becoming a major public health concern in India, with a prevalence ranging from 9% to 32%. The revised guidelines focus on health promotion, early detection, and a multidisciplinary approach to NAFLD care. The training module equips healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills to identify, manage, and prevent NAFLD, particularly at the primary level.