SRINAGAR: Drugs & Food Control Organization (D&FCO), J&K has intensified inspections of pharmacies across Jammu and Kashmir as part of the first phase of the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.  The drive aims to curb the misuse and illegal sale of pharmaceutical preparations containing habit-forming ingredients.

During the ongoing enforcement campaign, surprise inspections of pharmacies are being conducted throughout the Union Territory. Special focus is being laid on the scrutiny of sales and purchase records ofintoxicant drugs viz. habit-forming drugs and also other regulated pharmaceutical preparations.

During the inspection drive, it was observed that the majority of the firms were maintaining the requisite records in accordance with the prescribed norms. However, discrepancies relating to the maintenance of sales records were detected in nearly 120 firms.

Taking strict action against the erring establishments, Drug Sale Licenses of Eight Firms (M/s Irfan Medicate, S.K.Pora, Magam; M/S Shabir Medicare, Vethpara, Soitang Lasjan Srinagar; M/s Autif Medical Store, Cheeni Chowk Annatnag; Bismillah Medicate Gundipora Beerwah, Budgam; M/s Bhat Chemists & Druggists, Panzgam Kokernag; M/s Banday Medicate Gundipora Beerwah Budgam; M/s Manzoor Medicate khanda BK Pora Budgam; and Itoo Medical Store, KP Road Anantnag) have been cancelled for indulging in unethical trade practices particularly non- maintenance of sale purchase records of NRx drugs Licenses.

Besides, operations of 120 drug sale establishments were disallowed on the spot under Section 22(d) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Subsequently, the licenses of the such firms were suspended by the respective Licensing Authorities as per the provisions of the Act.

The Department reiterated its commitment towards ensuring strict regulatory compliance and preventing the misuse of pharmaceutical drugs. It also warned that stringent action shall continue against any pharmacy or establishment found violating the provisions of the law.

Rajesh Kumar, State Drugs Controller, J&K has reiterated that no person or firm shall indulge in procurement of lesser-known brands of drugs formulations comprising of habit forming ingredients particularly Pregablin , Tapentadol,  Tramadol etc directly from the suppliers or manufacturers located outside Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir in a  clandestine manner or  through online platforms or through courier service providers or speed post and in case any violation is reported, the defaulters shall be dealt strictly in accordance with zero-tolerance policy adopted by Union Territory of J&K against persons involved in promoting drug abuse which warrants the cancellation of licenses followed by legal recourse.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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