Shopian, July 23: Acting on the directions issued during the NCORD review meetings, Drugs Control Department, Shopian today conducted surprise inspections of pharmacies in Keegam and Keller to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Rules framed thereunder.

During the inspection drive, officials verified the functioning of Computerized Billing Systems (CBS) and CCTV cameras besides examining purchase and sale records of scheduled formulations, stock registers, invoices and the availability of qualified persons at licensed premises.
The inspection also assessed adherence to licence conditions and statutory requirements.
During the enforcement drive, several violations of licence conditions were detected, including the absence of qualified persons at licensed establishments. Consequently, three medical shops were ordered to be closed on the spot under the relevant provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Rules framed thereunder.
The department also initiated further regulatory action against the defaulting establishments in accordance with the provisions of the Act and Rules.
The enforcement drive was aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight, preventing the misuse and diversion of scheduled drugs and ensuring strict compliance with drug control laws.
The Drugs Control Department reiterated that similar inspection drives will continue across the district on a regular basis to safeguard public health and ensure accountability among licensed pharmacies.