Drug Controller General of India

Context: 

The Drug Controller General of India cleared, under the provisions of ‘emergency use authorisation’, a new mRNA vaccine for COVID­19.

About Drug Controller General of India:

• DCGI heads the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), which is responsible for ensuring the quality of drug supply across the country. 
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Functions: 
  • Give approval to new drugs and regulate clinical trials.
  • Sets standards for the manufacturing, sales, import, and distribution of drugs in India.
  • Approval of licences of specified categories of drugs such as blood and blood products, IV fluids, vaccines and sera in India.
  • Envisages uniform implementation of the provisions of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 Act & Rules made there under for ensuring the safety, rights and well being of the patients.

News Source: The Hindu