CCTV May Soon Be Mandatory At Medical Stores For Prescription Drug Sales

The Union Health Ministry has proposed mandatory CCTV surveillance at medical stores for Schedule H, H1 and X drugs. The proposal aims to curb the unauthorised sale of prescription medicines and strengthen regulatory monitoring. However, chemists have raised concerns over the cost and practical challenges, especially for small pharmacies and stores in rural and remote areas. AIOCD estimates that installing 6–8 cameras along with recording systems, storage, wiring, internet connectivity and maintenance could cost ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh or more. The government has invited objections and suggestions before taking the proposal forward.