CDSCO to set up Public Relations Offices at all Zonal, Sub-Zonal Offices for regulator guidance

New Delhi: In order to make regulatory guidance more accessible across the country, the nodal drug regulator, Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has decided to set up Public Relations Offices (PROs) at all Zonal and Sub-Zonal offices of CDSCO.

The apex drug regulator has informed the stakeholders about the same through an order issued by the Drugs Controller General of India(DCGI), Dr VG Somani.

The order mentioned that the PROs will be headed by concerned DDC(I)s/ADC(I)s/Head of offices with respect to the area of their working and act as 'Single Window^. for disposal of grievances of stakeholder and shall also provide information to the innovators regarding regulatory requirements for development & commercialisation of their products and provide clarification pertaining to Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules, 1945.

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The PROs will also be held responsible for guiding, assisting and handholding investors in various phases of the business life cycle as per the existing focus on 'Invest India/make in India'.

The records and operation of these PROs will be maintained as per the procedure adopted by PRO at CDSCO headquarter.

"They shall contact ADC(I). PRO at CDSCO Headquarter for any guidance in the matter," the order stated.

"The stakeholders visiting the Public Relation Office shall not require any prior appointment and e-mail i.d./phone numbers of all zonal/sub-zonal offices may be utilised by them to communicate with respective PROs." the order added.

CDSCO has further provided a process flow-chart for ready reference for handling applications/queries at Zonal and Sub-Zonal PROs. To view details of the flow chart click here.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is the Central Drug Authority for discharging functions assigned to the Central Government under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. CDSCO has six zonal offices, four sub-zonal offices, 13 port offices and seven laboratories under its control.

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