Sakeena Itoo Reviews DFCO Functioning, Stresses Proactive Monitoring of Drug, Food Supply Chains

SRINAGAR, JUNE 18:

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the performance and functioning of the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) of Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Secretary Health and Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, Commissioner Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Smita Sethi, Director Finance of the Health Department, State Drug Controller, and other concerned officials.

During the review, the Minister conducted a comprehensive assessment of DFCO’s regulatory operations concerning the quality control of drugs and food products across the Union Territory. She emphasized the need for a proactive and robust monitoring system to ensure that only quality pharmaceutical and food products reach the public.

“Public health is a non-negotiable priority. There must be zero tolerance towards substandard or spurious medicines and food items,” said Itoo, directing officials to intensify inspections, especially targeting unlicensed pharmacies and unauthorized outlets.

She instructed the Commissioner FDA to submit monthly reports detailing actions taken on violations and ongoing activities. The Minister also called for inter-departmental coordination with Social Welfare and Education Departments to organize awareness programs and workshops to educate the public about the dangers of counterfeit drugs.

Highlighting the need for inter-agency collaboration, Itoo urged stronger ties between DFCO and law enforcement to curb regulatory breaches. She further directed the organization to conduct capacity-building sessions for inspectors and field staff to stay aligned with the latest regulatory standards.

Reviewing other key areas, the Minister stressed on regular lab upgradation, stringent checks on blood banks and storage units, and speedy digital integration for improved transparency and grievance redressal.

Commissioner FDA Smita Sethi delivered a detailed presentation on the achievements and ongoing initiatives of the DFCO during the session.