604 rural medicine shops in Kolhan face closure

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Oct 7: Over 600 rural medicine shops in the Kolhan division are at risk of being shut down due to the absence of licensed pharmacists. In October 2021, the Jharkhand government allowed individuals to open drug stores in rural areas without a pharmacist, sparking opposition from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) and registered pharmacists.

Despite objections, 604 drug stores have already been opened across East Singhbhum (212), Seraikela-Kharsawan (187), and West Singhbhum (205) districts. The Jharkhand Registered Pharmacist Association raised concerns with the PCI, citing a Supreme Court ruling that no drug store can operate without a licensed pharmacist. In response, the PCI has written to Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Health Minister Banna Gupta, urging them to take action.

Piyush Chatterjee, President of the Jharkhand Registered Pharmacist Association, stated that the state government’s directive violates existing regulations. The PCI has formally requested the government to address the issue and ensure compliance with the law. Meanwhile, those opening rural medicine shops are required to apply online, with a preference given to local applicants with self-owned shops.