Action against Indian drug suppliers

11 April 2011 10:03 am Views - 3772

The Indian High Commissioner Ashok. K. Kantha met Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena and assured that the Indian government would ensure a steady supply of quality drugs to the Health Ministry without delay.

He also requested Minister Maithripala to submit a report on Indian drug suppliers who have failed to supply drugs on time and those whose stocks have been substandard.

Mr. Kanth has informed Minister Sirisena that the Indian government has taken the issue seriously and wants to take legal action against those who have failed to follow tender specifications. Media reports continuously highlighted the drug shortage at government hospitals and open market and also the sub-standard of the Indian supplies.

The Health Ministry suspended 10 Indian suppliers a fortnight ago as they failed to supply paracetamol and some14 essential drugs needed for the treatment of cancer patients. (Sandun. A. Jayasekara)