Drugs and Cosmetics Act

Why it matters

• Establishes a regulatory mechanism for the licensing and monitoring of pharmaceutical products and cosmetic items.
• Empowers regulatory authorities to conduct inspections and take penal action against the production or sale of substandard or adulterated goods.
• Provides a legal basis for the classification of drugs into specific schedules to regulate their prescription and retail sale.

How it is asked

Focus on the regulatory architecture, the roles of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and state-level licensing authorities, and the challenges in enforcement regarding drug quality control and public health safety.