Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers Revises Drug Prices for 2026 under DPCO

The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has notified revised ceiling prices for scheduled formulations under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013, based on an annual Wholesale Price Index (WPI) increase of 0.64956% for 2025 over 2024. The revised prices will be effective from 01 April 2026 and apply to key medicines, including Acetyl Salicylic Acid, Calcium Carbonate, Dapsone, Rifampicin, Medroxy Progesterone Acetate, and condoms.

Manufacturers selling above the notified ceiling price must reduce the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) in line with the revised limits, while those below may revise prices as per WPI provisions under Para 16(2). GST can be added only if actually payable. Manufacturers must submit price revisions in Form II within 15 days and issue updated price lists in Form V.

Retailers are required to display price lists prominently. Quarterly reporting in Form-III and prior intimation for discontinuation in Form-IV are mandatory. Non-compliance with ceiling price provisions will lead to recovery of overcharged amounts with interest under DPCO, 2013, and the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.