The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, along with the National Regulatory Authority of India and affiliated institutions have met the international standards for vaccine regulations set by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Union Health Ministry said, a team of international experts from various countries led by WHO headquarters in Geneva reviewed India’s vaccine regulatory system last month. The Ministry said, Safety, efficacy, and quality are three basic parameters of assessment of vaccines. India retains Maturity Level 3 with highest marks in several functions. WHO has established global standards and benchmarks for assurance of vaccine quality through the development of tools and guidelines, and prequalification programme of vaccines.

Speaking about this landmark achievement, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said, the Central Drugs Standards Control Organization, in collaboration with WHO, has made exemplary efforts towards this achievement. She said, India is one of the main players in the pharmaceutical industry worldwide and is known for its affordable vaccines and generic medicines. Ms Srivastava reemphasized the strength of the Indian regulatory system and its commitment to supplying quality products worldwide to enhance health outcomes.