India Proposes Mandatory CCTV at Pharmacies to Track Prescription Drugs

India's Health Ministry has proposed mandatory CCTV surveillance at retail pharmacies to monitor the sale of prescription drugs, a move aimed at curbing unauthorized access to controlled medicines. The proposal, outlined in a draft amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945, would require pharmacies to install and maintain closed-circuit television systems for dispensing drugs listed under Schedule H, H1, and X. The draft notification, issued on September 8, states that recordings of prescription drug sales must be preserved for a minimum of three months. The requirement would apply to retail outlets but not to wholesalers. The ministry has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders and the public within 30 days before finalizing the rules. The proposal was recommended by the Drugs Technical Advisory Board following deliberations by the Drugs Consultative Committee. The Health Ministry stated the measure is intended to enhance transparency and accountability across the pharmaceutical supply chain and strengthen safeguards for public health. It said the amendment seeks to address concerns relating to unauthorized access to and sale of Schedule H, H1, and X drugs.