The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has introduced a new safety requirement for pharmacies across India. The authority has instructed all retail and wholesale drug stores to place a dedicated Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) QR code and a toll-free helpline number in a clearly visible area.

This mandate was finalized during the 16th Working Group Meeting of the PVPI held on June 18, 2025. The move reinforces the government’s ongoing effort to improve patient safety and make drug-related issues easier to report.

Pharmacies Must Enable Quick ADR Reporting

The circular, issued on November 20, 2025, calls for strict compliance from all State and Union Territory Drug Licensing Authorities. Each pharmacy must display the PvPI QR code issued by the National Coordination Centre.

The QR code will enable citizens and healthcare providers to report Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) or Adverse Events (AEs) through the ADR Monitoring System. The process is simple and does not require any paperwork. The aim is to ensure that even minor reactions get reported without delay.

CDSCO has also directed authorities to spread the instructions widely among license holders. This is expected to strengthen the pharmacovigilance network and improve early detection of drug-related risks.

Step toward Strengthening Public Health

The Drugs Controller General (India) has urged immediate implementation of the new display rule. The initiative is seen as a major step in enhancing drug safety awareness at the ground level.

In another policy move, the government has withdrawn 14 BIS Quality Control Orders to reduce import pressure on MSMEs.

The new CDSCO order places patient safety at the forefront. With easy access to the QR code and helpline, the public can report drug reactions quickly, helping authorities track issues early and improve overall drug safety standards.