.png)
. 16/10/2024 4:36 PM
Gathering Experts to Enhance Drug Regulation and Cooperation Amidst Global Health Challenges
For the first time, India is hosting the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) from October 14 to 18, 2024. This significant event gathers health officials and regulatory bodies from over 194 WHO member countries, marking a milestone in India's growing role in global healthcare, especially highlighted by its leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, India took decisive measures to enhance healthcare services and vaccine production. The country successfully vaccinated over one billion people, earning the title of “Pharmacy of the World” for its large-scale production of vaccines and medicines. Guided by the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning “the world is one family,” India provided essential medical supplies to more than 150 countries during the pandemic.
The ICDRA serves as a vital platform for experts to exchange knowledge and form partnerships to ensure that medicines and medical products are safe, effective, and of high quality. This conference emphasizes India’s commitment to advancing global healthcare standards.
India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has established robust systems for drug and medical device approval. With more than 95% of its processes digitized, the CDSCO facilitates easier tracking of approvals and promotes transparency. The primary focus is on ensuring that people have access to affordable, high-quality medicines, supported by numerous testing labs across the country to assess the quality of these products.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, emphasized the necessity of global cooperation in drug regulation, particularly in combating antimicrobial resistance and integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare. Strong regulatory systems are essential to ensure universal health coverage for all.
The conference will center on several critical topics:
Smart Regulation: Collaboration on regulatory standards among countries.
Medical Devices: Safety regulations and emerging trends for medical devices and In Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs).
Pharmaceutical Quality: Maintaining rigorous standards for medicine quality.
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Enhancing healthcare systems through AI.
Regulatory Preparedness: Lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic to prepare for future health crises.
The 19th ICDRA aims to strengthen global regulatory systems through collective dialogue and cooperation. As India showcases its leadership and innovative approaches, the conference is set to address both current and future global health challenges.
