Bureau Report | Health Policy & Regulation | Bengaluru, Karnataka

On 28 January 2026, a delegation of office bearers from the Karnataka Pharma Retailers & Distributors Organization (KPRDO), along with Sri Medappa, Founder of Chemist Brigade, met with Shri K. Srinivas, IAS, Commissioner – Food & Drugs Administration (FDA) and Administrator – Karnataka State Pharmacy Council (KSPC), at the FDA Office in Bengaluru.

The meeting, chaired by the Hon’ble Commissioner, was attended by senior officials including Dr. Umesh, Additional Drugs Controller & Licensing Authority – FDA; Dr. Kempaiah Suresh, Deputy Drugs Controller – Head Office, FDA; and Shri Bharathesh Jagashetty, Former Drugs Controller & Advisor – FDA.

The delegation submitted memorandums highlighting what they described as pressing challenges faced by traditional “brick and mortar” pharmacies across Karnataka.

Key Issues Raised

1. “Registered Medical Shop” Application (Geo-Tagging)

KPRDO sought clarity regarding the implementation of the “Registered Medical Shop” application involving geo-tagging of retail pharmacists. The delegation expressed concerns that many drug traders across the State lack adequate information about the operational aspects, potential compliance requirements, and possible consequences of the system.

The organization requested that implementation be carried out in a manner that avoids inconvenience to licensed retail pharmacists and ensures transparency in execution.

---

2. Bifurcation of Licensing Authority

The delegation also raised the issue of bifurcating licensing authority functions for retail and wholesale entities within respective FDA circles. KPRDO emphasized the need for clear administrative guidelines to ensure smooth regulatory functioning and avoid procedural ambiguity.

---

Competition and Online Sales Concerns

The delegation submitted that traditional pharmacies in Karnataka are facing increasing competition from corporate pharmacy chains, online medicine portals, and quick-delivery app-based platforms.

According to the representation, concerns were expressed regarding:

• Deep discount practices
• Promotional strategies on digital platforms
• Alleged unauthorized sale of medicines through social media channels

The delegation urged authorities to ensure that all stakeholders operate strictly within the framework of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and related regulations.

It was emphasized that traditional licensed traders, who comply with statutory requirements, are experiencing financial stress due to evolving market dynamics.

---

Public Health and Advertising Regulations

The memorandum further highlighted concerns regarding what the delegation described as misleading advertisements promoting life-saving medicines on digital and social media platforms.

Reference was made to Chapter 7 of the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) – Pharmacy Practice Regulations (PPR), which addresses ethical standards and restricts misleading advertisements by pharmacists.

The delegation requested strict enforcement of applicable legal provisions to safeguard public health.

---

Jan Aushadhi Kendras Compliance Issue

Another issue raised related to Clause 2.4 of the agreement executed with the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), under which exclusive Jan Aushadhi Kendras are authorized to sell only Jan Aushadhi branded medicines.

The delegation submitted representations alleging that certain Jan Aushadhi Kendras may be engaging in the sale of branded generics beyond the scope of the agreement. Documentary material was reportedly submitted to the authorities for examination.

The organization requested appropriate regulatory review and enforcement action, if warranted, in accordance with applicable laws and contractual provisions.

---

Commissioner’s Response

After reviewing the submissions, the Hon’ble Commissioner – FDA & Administrator – KSPC reportedly assured the delegation that the issues raised would be examined seriously and that necessary steps would be taken to ensure that implementation of regulatory measures does not adversely affect compliant drug traders.

The officials indicated that due process under existing laws would be followed in evaluating the concerns raised.

---

Organizational Statement

KPRDO stated that it remains committed to protecting the interests of licensed pharmaceutical retailers in Karnataka while supporting lawful and transparent trade practices.

In a joint statement,
C. Jayaram, President, and
V. V. Kapparshettar, Secretary,
Karnataka Pharma Retailers & Distributors Organization (KPRDO),
expressed appreciation to the Commissioner and senior FDA officials for granting the meeting and considering the representations submitted.

---

Regulatory Context

India’s pharmaceutical retail sector operates under multiple statutory frameworks including:

• Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940
• Pharmacy Act, 1948
• Pharmacy Practice Regulations (PCI)
• Consumer protection and advertising laws
• Digital commerce guidelines

Any enforcement or regulatory action would require review under these applicable legal provisions.

---

Editorial & Compliance Note

This report is based on representations submitted by KPRDO and information shared following the meeting. The article reflects claims made by the delegation and does not constitute a determination of wrongdoing. Any alleged violations mentioned remain subject to review by competent authorities. ReportingNewsWorld maintains editorial neutrality and encourages readers to refer to official regulatory notifications for authoritative updates.