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The Central Government has officially clarified that there is no distinct categorisation of medicines as “life-saving drugs” in India. Responding to questions in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel stated that while the term “life-saving drugs” is not used in Indian regulations, the government closely monitors the safety, efficacy, availability, and affordability of medicines across all therapeutic classes to ensure public access to critical treatments. Recommendations are made based on the World Health Organization’s Essential Medicines List, drugs used in national health programmes, Indian Pharmacopoeia, and other standards, and are reflected in the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM).
Currently, price ceilings have been fixed for 930 scheduled formulations under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, through the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA). All manufacturers, importers, and marketers are required to adhere to these ceiling prices. Government data indicates an average reduction of about 17% in medicine prices under NLEM 2022, saving patients approximately Rs 3,788 crore annually. Notably, the ceiling price fixation of coronary stents in 2017 alone resulted in estimated savings of Rs 11,600 crore per year for patients.
Beyond the scheduled formulations, the NPPA has regulated prices for 3,482 ‘new drugs’, including those with combination therapies or changed strengths/dosages.
Interventions for Non-Scheduled Medicines and Medical Devices:
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Manufacturers of non-scheduled medicines cannot hike MRP by more than 10% annually.
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NPPA has capped prices of 22 diabetic and 84 cardiovascular medicines, saving patients around Rs 350 crore.
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Trade margins on 42 anti-cancer medicines were capped, lowering prices of 526 brands by almost 50% and saving approximately Rs 984 crore annually.
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Ceiling prices for orthopaedic knee implants and caps on trade margins for various medical devices have saved patients nearly Rs 2,500 crore every year.
Expanding Affordable Access:
In addition to direct price regulation:
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The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) runs 16,912 Jan Aushadhi Kendras offering quality generic medicines typically 50-80% cheaper than popular brands.
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Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana provides health insurance coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per family, covering hospitalisation and medicines for more than 41 crore cardholders.
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The Free Drugs Service Initiative delivers essential medicines at no cost in public health facilities.
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AMRIT Pharmacy stores offer cancer, cardiovascular, and other key drugs and devices at up to 50% discount from market rates.
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Poor patients suffering from major diseases receive additional financial aid under various national schemes.
Disclaimer:
This article is a summarised report based on official government statements and public sources. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. For the latest official information or guidance, please refer directly to government publications and consult qualified professionals.
