The Karnataka government has tightened drug procurement rules after the death of five young mothers in Ballari, a tragedy linked to the use of substandard IV fluids a few months ago. The incident triggered widespread concern over the quality of medicines supplied to government hospitals.
In response, the Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd (KSMSCL) has been authorised to float tenders worth ₹800 crore under stringent new guidelines, involving multiple checks and testing of every drug batch. The corporation, the nodal agency for procuring medicines, consumables, and equipment for more than 2,700 government health institutions across the state, has already invited 30 tenders for 100 drugs worth ₹485 crore.
Officials said the tendering process has been overhauled to ensure quality. Instead of purchasing drugs in bulk for an entire year, orders will now be placed in phases to prevent expiry, reduce warehouse congestion, and minimise the risk of drugs being declared “Not of Standard Quality (NSQ)” due to climatic variations.
Suppliers must deliver general drugs within 30 days of production, and injections, IV fluids, and sterile products within 40 days. Imported medicines must have at least 60% shelf life remaining at the time of delivery. Expert teams will also conduct on-site inspections of pharmaceutical units.
KSMSCL Managing Director M. Kanagavalli said a quarantine system has been introduced at all warehouses to maintain quality. “Earlier, product quality was verified based on manufacturers’ in-house or NABL reports. Now, ten laboratories across the country will test every batch, and only after receiving standard quality reports will the drugs be released for distribution,” she said.
Testing will be carried out at every stage, and officials will be held accountable for any lapses. The Aushada software now includes a module that allows health institutions to report adverse drug reactions directly.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said the department has adopted the best procurement practices from Tamil Nadu and Kerala. “We have relaxed tender norms to attract more companies, and earlier payment issues have been resolved,” he added.