Import Rules Under Drugs and Cosmetic Act Apply to Ayurvedic Drugs Too: Madras High Court

The Madras High Court has held that import regulations under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, apply equally to ayurvedic medicines.

The court found gaps in current licensing forms and standards and directed the Centre to revise rules for proper procedures concerning ayurvedic drug imports.

The case involved Axeon Marketing India, accused of importing ayurvedic products without a valid license. The Court ordered testing of the seized consignment at a CDSCO-approved lab at the importer’s expense.

If compliant with Indian standards, the goods may be released. The Court stressed the need to safeguard public health through regulatory reforms.