Union Health Minister Releases Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026, Strengthening Drug Quality Standards

Union minister for health and family welfare J P Nadda has released the Indian Pharmacopoeia 2026 (IP 2026), the 10th edition of India’s official drug standards, in New Delhi. The new edition marks a major step in enhancing the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines in India.

Nadda said IP 2026 reflects scientific progress, global best practices, and India’s expanding leadership in pharmaceutical regulation. The edition introduces 121 new monographs, taking the total to 3,340, with expanded coverage of anti-tubercular, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer medicines, and iron supplements used under national health programmes.

He noted growing international recognition of Indian Pharmacopoeia standards, now accepted in 19 Global South countries. Highlighting pharmacovigilance progress, Nadda said India has risen from 123rd to 8th globally in contributions to the WHO safety database by 2025.

Health secretary Punya Salila Srivastava said IP 2026 strengthens India’s regulatory ecosystem and supports its role in the global pharmaceutical supply chain. Published by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, the standards are legally enforceable under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

02-01-2026