Jharkhand Official Calls for Stricter Penalties for UCPMP Non-Compliance

Tiwari highlighted the need for more severe consequences for companies that neglect to file self-declarations or adhere to the UCPMP guidelines.

Sumanta Kumar Tiwari, the joint director of the Jharkhand Drug Control Administration, has urged union health minister JP Nadda to impose stricter penalties on pharmaceutical companies that fail to comply with the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP). 

In a formal letter addressed to the minister, Tiwari highlighted the need for more severe consequences for companies that neglect to file self-declarations or adhere to the UCPMP guidelines.

Tiwari’s appeal comes in response to a recent extension granted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The deadline for pharmaceutical and medical device companies to submit their self-declarations under the UCPMP has been extended to July 31, 2024, for the fiscal year 2025. 

This extension provides companies additional time to comply with the regulations but has also prompted concerns about the effectiveness of enforcement measures.

Need for Enhanced Monitoring & Penalties

In his communication, Tiwari proposed a range of stringent actions for non-compliant companies. He recommended that those failing to meet UCPMP requirements face severe penalties, including the suspension of business licenses and substantial financial fines. 

Tiwari emphasized the importance of not just extending deadlines but also ensuring rigorous enforcement to curb unethical marketing practices.

“The deadline extension offers temporary relief but does not address the core issue of compliance. The health ministry must implement stronger monitoring mechanisms and enforce penalties to ensure adherence to the UCPMP,” Tiwari stated. 

Tiwari also suggested that the government increase its efforts in auditing and inspecting companies to maintain transparency in marketing practices. 

He proposed that companies be required to disclose detailed information about events, seminars, and workshops involving medical professionals and pharmaceutical industry representatives.

Recommendations for Improved Compliance

Tiwari outlined several recommendations to enhance the implementation of the UCPMP. He advised that all pharmaceutical companies appoint nodal officers responsible for handling UCPMP-related issues and monitoring marketing practices. 

Additionally, he recommended that companies organize training and awareness programs for industry professionals, doctors, and regulatory officials to ensure effective understanding and application of the code.

“The establishment of a dedicated mechanism for protecting whistleblowers who report unethical practices is crucial. The UCPMP should also be regularly reviewed and updated to address emerging issues and maintain its effectiveness,”  Tiwari added.

Furthermore, Tiwari stressed the need for improved coordination between regulatory departments to ensure a comprehensive approach to monitoring and enforcement. He argued that a holistic strategy is essential to prevent unethical marketing practices and ensure that the pharmaceutical industry operates within the boundaries of the UCPMP.

By adopting these measures, Tiwari believes that the UCPMP can be more effectively enforced, leading to a reduction in unethical practices within the pharmaceutical sector.