|
Gujarat FDCA utilises Rs. 42 crore under CSS to modernise its flagship drug testing lab in Vadodara
|
|
Shardul Nautiyal, Mumbai
September 08 , 2025
|
|
|
In a major stride towards strengthening pharmaceutical quality control, the Gujarat Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) has successfully utilised Rs. 42 crore under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) to digitise and modernise its flagship drug testing laboratory in Vadodara. The funding, sanctioned by the Central government, marks a significant investment in public health infrastructure and pharmaceutical oversight in the state.
The CSS scheme, structured on a 60:40 funding model between the Central and state governments respectively, earlier sanctioned Rs. 6 crore to Gujarat FDCA. The latest tranche of Rs. 42 crore has been used not only for the extensive upgradation of the Vadodara lab but also to enhance field operations, equipping drug inspectors with laptops and two-wheelers for more efficient inspections and data reporting.
The Vadodara facility, which became operational in May 2023, now stands as Asia’s largest microbiological drug testing laboratory, covering a vast 16,000-square-meter area. It features state-of-the-art Class 100 cleanrooms and advanced airlock systems that meet rigorous international standards. The modernization significantly enhances the lab's capabilities in microbiological testing and pharmaceutical quality assurance.
Speaking on the development, Dr. Hemant G. Koshia, Commissioner of FDCA, emphasized the broader vision behind the initiative. “We are not just upgrading one lab; we are creating a robust, interconnected network of modern drug testing laboratories across Gujarat,” he said.
In line with this vision, a proposal for an additional Rs. 35 crore has been submitted to the state government for the vertical expansion of the Surat laboratory. Originally planned as a ground-plus-two-storey structure on a 2,500-square-meter plot, it is now being re-envisioned as a seven-storey facility to meet growing demand.
Plans are also underway for a new laboratory in Ahmedabad or Gandhinagar. Dr. Koshia confirmed that district collectors and revenue departments are actively identifying suitable land for this facility.
Further extending its reach, FDCA is developing a new drug testing laboratory in Rajkot, with Rs. 8 crore allocated to the Gujarat Medical Services Corporation Limited (GMSCL) for equipment procurement. GMSCL, an autonomous body established under the Companies Act, will manage the tendering process via the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), ensuring transparent and efficient procurement. GMSCL’s role encompasses procurement, inventory management, IT integration, and strengthening the state’s medical logistics.
“These expansions are pivotal in building a modern, comprehensive drug testing ecosystem that aligns with national and international standards,” Dr. Koshia stated.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TOPICS
|
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Maharashtra, has issued a public advisory urging citizens to report any misleadi ...
|
|
|
|
|