Odisha Detects 168 Fake Drugs and 388 Substandard Medicines in Four Years
Odisha has reported a worrying rise in counterfeit and substandard medicines, raising alarms over public health and pharmaceutical safety.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling presented the figures in the State Assembly, revealing that between 2021 and 2024, authorities detected 168 fake drugs and 388 medicines classified as “Not of Standard.”
The seizures included counterfeit medicines worth more than Rs 2.5 lakh. A year‑wise breakdown shows 79 cases in 2021, 64 in 2022, 14 in 2023, and 11 in 2024.
While the numbers appear to be declining, experts caution that the presence of falsified drugs in the supply chain remains a serious threat.
Public health specialists warn that fake medicines not only fail to treat illnesses but also pose significant risks to patients, undermining trust in healthcare systems.
The Minister assured that the government is committed to tackling the menace through strict enforcement, monitoring, and quality control measures.
This revelation underscores the urgent need for stronger pharmaceutical regulation and consumer awareness to safeguard lives against the dangers of counterfeit drugs.
