{
  "id": 18053957,
  "title": "Centre proposes expansion of import gateways for drugs and medical devices",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/centre-proposes-expansion-of-import-gateways-for-drugs-and-medical",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-11-04T02:11:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ETHealthworld",
    "slug": "ethealthworld",
    "url": "https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/policy/centre-proposes-expansion-of-import-gateways-for-drugs-and-medical-devices/135518497"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "New Delhi: The Indian government has recommended an amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, to broaden the network of authorized entry points for importing drugs and medical devices into the country. This proposal aims to streamline import processes, enhance logistics efficiency, and strengthen the supply chain for healthcare products, according to the Union Health Ministry.The rule currently outlines the authorized ports, airports, railway stations, road crossings, and other entry points for drug imports into India. The Ministry suggests adding ICDs in Sonipat, Piyala, and Harsaru in Haryana; Dadri in Uttar Pradesh; Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat; Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur in Hyderabad, Telangana; Whitefield in Bengaluru, Karnataka; SEZ Bommasandra in Karnataka; and Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh for drug imports by air.These new locations will join existing authorized import gateways, which comprise ICDs in Dhannad and Tihi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, along with airports already designated for drug imports. The proposed expansion is anticipated to enable importers to clear consignments nearer to their manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and distribution centers, thereby reducing inland transportation distances, optimizing logistics costs, and minimizing delays in the movement of imported consignments.According to the Ministry, this measure is expected to enhance operational convenience for importers and facilitate more efficient movement of medicines, medical devices, and cosmetics across various regions of the country. The Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) expressed support for the proposed expansion, stating that it can reduce logistics costs, minimize delays, and improve supply-chain efficiency. For medical technologies, where timely availability directly impacts patient care, such measures are particularly crucial. The association looks forward to effective implementation with adequate regulatory infrastructure to ensure the benefits of improved trade facilitation reach hospitals and patients.",
  "summary": "The proposed amendment aims to facilitate smoother import operations, improve logistics efficiency and strengthen the supply chain for healthcare products, the Union Health Ministry said.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}