Cabinet Approves increase in 146 medicines
Staff Report
The cabinet has approved an increase in prices of 146 essential life-saving medicines.
The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, convened to discuss and approve several important decisions:
Medicine Price Hike
The Federal Cabinet, acting upon the recommendation of the Ministry of National Health, has approved an increase in the prices of 146 essential life-saving medicines. No Restrictions to import Drugs from India, Senate Panel informed
This decision is in response to the escalating costs of raw materials in the global market, falling under the hardship category.
The Ministry of National Health and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) highlighted during the meeting that citizens can now register complaints about the non-availability of medicines through DRAP’s online portal.
Competition Commission Agreement
Following the suggestion of the Ministry of Finance, the Federal Cabinet sanctioned the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Competition Commission of Pakistan and the State Administration of Market Regulation (SAMR) in China.
Recognition for Contributions
On the recommendation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Cabinet granted permission for Pakistani psychologist Muhammad Saleem Khan Tareen to receive the Member of the British Empire award from King Charles (SwM) of Great Britain, acknowledging his significant contributions to the field of psychology.
Aeronautical Merit Award
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sudhuku has been allowed to receive the Gold Medal for Aeronautical Merit awarded by Italy.
This honor, bestowed by the Government of Italy, recognizes Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu’s contributions to the enhanced collaboration between the Italian and Pakistani Air Forces.
Government’s Commitment to Affordable Medicines
Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, addressing the participants, emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring affordable medicines for the public.
He stated that the government is formulating policies to benefit the common man and promote the development of the pharmaceutical industry.
DRAP Performance Enhancement
The Prime Minister directed the improvement of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan’s performance and suggested recommendations for necessary legislation on drug price deregulation. These proposals are intended for presentation in the Parliament by the next elected government.
Approval of Prior Decisions
The Federal Cabinet approved the decisions made in the meetings of the Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCOE) on January 26, 2024, as well as those of the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases on January 26, 2024, and January 31, 2024.
