JUNE 19: Hon’ble Minister for Public Health and Family Welfare, Ms. Sakeena Itoo, chaired a high-level review meeting to assess the functioning and performance of the Drug and Food Control Organization (DFCO) in Jammu and Kashmir. The session focused on strengthening regulatory mechanisms to ensure the safety, quality, and transparency of drug and food supply chains across the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Minister Itoo emphasized the urgent need for strict vigilance and efficient monitoring of pharmaceutical and food product distribution. She expressed concern over reports of unlicensed and unregulated establishments operating in certain areas and directed officials to intensify field inspections and legal action against violators.
The Minister called for the preparation of monthly violation reports by field officers, detailing instances of non-compliance, unauthorized operations, and quality breaches. These reports are expected to help in identifying trends, improving enforcement strategies, and promoting greater accountability within the system.
She also highlighted the importance of inter-departmental coordination in ensuring effective implementation of public health regulations. Stressing that public awareness is equally vital, Minister Itoo urged the DFCO and allied departments to conduct regular awareness campaigns regarding safe food practices, responsible medication usage, and the dangers of counterfeit or expired products.
In addition, she reviewed the availability and quality control mechanisms for essential drugs and consumables at district and block levels. The Minister reiterated that no compromise would be tolerated when it comes to public health and safety and urged authorities to strengthen laboratory testing and surveillance mechanisms across the UT.
Officials from the Health Department, Food Safety Wing, and District Regulatory Authorities attended the review session. They presented updates on ongoing inspections, testing outcomes, and challenges encountered during enforcement drives.
Minister Itoo appreciated the efforts of field officers and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have access to safe, regulated, and high-quality food and medicine. She assured that all necessary support would be extended to enhance manpower, infrastructure, and legal enforcement capabilities.
The meeting concluded with a renewed call for transparency, swift action against violators, and continuous public engagement to build a healthier, more informed society.
