Revised MRPs of 1,364 anti-cancer formulations come into effect; consumers to save ₹3,540 crore/year
According to the Ministry, 85 pharmaceutical companies have reported revised MRPs for 1,364 anti-cancer formulations across 121 drugs as of November 8, 2026
Starting November 9, 2026, the maximum retail prices (MRPs) of 1,364 anti-cancer formulations have been revised in India. This change is expected to save consumers approximately ₹3,540.38 crore each year, according to an official announcement.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, has capped trade margins on the MRP of 137 anti-cancer drugs. This action stems from recommendations submitted by an Expert Committee, established by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, on October 17, 2026.
As of November 8, 2026, 85 pharmaceutical companies have announced revised MRPs for 1,364 anti-cancer drugs. A significant portion of these brands have experienced reductions of more than 50%, with the steepest price cut reaching 96.45%. The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers confirmed these details in a release.
According to health experts, the sharp cuts in the price of cancer drugs expose excessive pricing, pointing out that controlling trade margins alone is insufficient. They argue that life-saving cancer treatment must be affordable based on medical necessity, not a patient's ability to pay.
Consumers can verify medicine rates through the revised MRP printed on the drug packaging, the Pharma Sahi Daam mobile application, or the official NPPA website. They can also lodge complaints about overcharging or other pricing-related issues via the Pharma Jan Samadhan portal or contact the NPPA helpline at 1800-111-255.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
