NPPA warns of action over revised prices of 137 anti-cancer drugs
The regulator has capped trade margins at 30 per cent to ensure patients receive the benefits of lower medicine costs.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has warned of penal action against those who do not follow the new pricing for 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer drugs, according to The Hindu. The regulator, which operates under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, has instructed State Drug Controllers (SDCs) to oversee compliance and submit action taken reports by November 16, 2026.
The revised pricing for these medicines became effective on November 9, 2026, following a gazette order issued on October 17, 2026. This order implemented a 30 per cent cap on trade margins for the drugs to reduce the costs paid by patients.
The Chemicals and Fertilizers Ministry stated that updated price lists, based on company submissions up to November 11, are now available on the NPPA website and the Pharma Sahi Daam app and portal. All manufacturers, stockists, dealers, retailers, hospitals, and medical institutions must follow these prices and display the updated lists at their locations and on their websites.
The SDCs have been told to monitor the entire supply chain and healthcare facilities to ensure the lower maximum retail prices (MRPs) reach patients. Any breach of these directives may lead to overcharging proceedings under the provisions of the Drugs (Price Control) Order (DPCO), 2013.
Citizens can report issues regarding medicine shortages, non-availability, or overcharging through the Pharma Sahi Daam portal, the NPPA helpline at 1800-111-255, or via email at [email protected].