The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has allowed the import of drugs through Navi Mumbai Airport by amending the Drugs Rules, 1945. The move expands designated drug import ports to 42, strengthens pharmaceutical logistics, supports ease of doing business and improves supply chain efficiency across India.
Key Highlights
- Navi Mumbai Airport added as a designated entry point for drug imports.
- Total authorised drug import ports increase to 42.
- Move aims to strengthen pharma supply chains and logistics.
- Government also simplifies drug import rules for testing and research.
- Body
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has permitted the import of pharmaceutical products through Navi Mumbai Airport, marking another step towards improving India’s healthcare logistics and facilitating ease of doing business. The decision has been implemented through an amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945.
With the latest notification, Navi Mumbai Airport has been added to the list of authorised entry points for pharmaceutical consignments, increasing the total number of designated drug import ports to 42. The amendment was notified after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
According to the Health Ministry, the decision will strengthen pharmaceutical supply chains, improve logistics infrastructure and provide importers with greater flexibility by offering an additional gateway for importing medicines into India. The move is expected to ensure faster and more efficient movement of pharmaceutical consignments.
The government has also been working to simplify regulatory procedures for importing small quantities of drugs meant for testing, examination and research. Earlier, the Ministry proposed amendments introducing an acknowledgement-based system for imports that previously required Form 11 approval.
These reforms are expected to reduce compliance burdens, promote research and innovation, support pharmaceutical startups, and improve India’s business environment while maintaining robust regulatory oversight for imported medicines.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Navi Mumbai Airport as a drug import hub reflects the government’s continued efforts to modernise pharmaceutical logistics, encourage innovation and strengthen India’s healthcare supply chain.
