19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA)

October 15, 2024

For the first time, India is hosting the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) from 14th to 18th October 2024. This important event brings together health officials and regulatory bodies from over 194 WHO member countries. The conference shows India’s growing role in global healthcare, especially due to its leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

India’s Leadership During COVID-19

During the pandemic, India took strong steps to increase healthcare services and vaccine production. The country successfully vaccinated over a billion people and earned the nickname “Pharmacy of the World” for its large production of vaccines and medicines. India followed the principle of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, which means “the world is one family”, and sent essential medical supplies to more than 150 countries during the pandemic.

Why is ICDRA Important?

The ICDRA provides a space for experts to share knowledge and form partnerships on making sure medicines and medical products are safe, effective, and of good quality. This conference highlights India’s dedication to improving global healthcare standards.

India’s Progress with CDSCO

India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has developed strong systems for approving drugs and medical devices. They have also digitized more than 95% of their processes, making it easier to track approvals and ensure transparency. The focus is on making sure people have access to affordable, high-quality medicines. India has set up many testing labs across the country to check the quality of these medicines.

Global Cooperation for Better Drug Regulation

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, stressed the need for global cooperation in drug regulation, especially in fighting antimicrobial resistance and integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare. Strong regulatory systems are needed to make sure everyone has access to universal health coverage.

Key Topics Discussed at ICDRA

The conference will focus on several important topics:

Smart Regulation: How countries can work together on regulatory standards.

Medical Devices: New trends and safety rules for medical devices and In Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs).

Pharmaceutical Quality: Ensuring strict standards for the quality of medicines.

Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: The role of AI in improving healthcare systems.

Regulatory Preparedness: Learning from the COVID-19 pandemic to prepare for future health emergencies.

The 19th ICDRA aims to make global regulatory systems stronger through collective dialogue and cooperation. As India showcases its leadership and innovations, the conference will focus on addressing current and future global health challenges.

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