India Ranks Eighth Globally in Pharmacovigilance

India has made a significant leap in global drug safety monitoring, rising to the 8th position worldwide in pharmacovigilance contributions to the World Health Organization. This marks a sharp improvement from its 123rd rank a decade ago, reflecting sustained reforms in drug regulation, reporting systems, and quality standards.

Release of Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026

Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J P Nadda announced the achievement while releasing the 10th edition of India’s official drug standards compendium, Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026, in New Delhi. The Indian Pharmacopoeia serves as the authoritative reference for the quality, purity, and strength of medicines manufactured and used in the country.

Expansion of Drug Standards and Monographs

The latest edition incorporates 121 new monographs, taking the total number to 3,340. A major highlight is the first-time inclusion of 20 blood component monographs. This expansion is expected to strengthen scientific study and clinical research in areas such as blood transfusion services, thalassemia, haemophilia, and anaemia. India has become the first country globally to formally include blood components in its pharmacopoeia.

Support to National Health Programmes

According to the Minister, the newly added monographs will directly benefit key public health initiatives such as the National TB Elimination Programme, Anaemia Mukt Bharat, and the Universal Immunisation Programme. Enhanced drug and biological standards are expected to improve safety, efficacy, and consistency in treatment delivery across these flagship programmes.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• India ranks 8th globally in WHO pharmacovigilance contributions.
• Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 is the 10th edition.
• Total monographs now stand at 3,340.
• India is the first country to include blood component monographs.

Growing Global Recognition

The Indian Pharmacopoeia is now officially recognised in 19 Global South countries, underlining India’s rising credibility in pharmaceutical regulation. This global acceptance strengthens India’s position as a trusted supplier of quality medicines and reinforces its role in shaping international drug standards, particularly for developing nations.