The State health department conducted surprise inspections at several medical stores in Ramnagar in Nainital district on Tuesday, targeting suspected violations in licensing, storage, and drug regulations. Action was triggered by concerns about fake or improperly handled medicines possibly reaching consumers.
Our correspondent reports that the inspection team checked for valid licenses, presence of a registered pharmacist, CCTV usage, prescription protocols, and how medicines are stored. Inspectors found irregularities in some medical stores and took note of deficiencies in record-keeping and storage conditions.
During the raids, three drug samples were seized – each from different stores — and sent for laboratory testing. Two of the stores received notices for corrective action based on findings during the inspections.
Our correspondent adds that the Health Department is led by Drug Inspector Archana Gehtodi in this drive. The move also covers whether medical stores are following rules around maintaining proper temperature and safely storing sensitive drugs. Observers say that deviations in storage or missing pharmacist supervision are red flags for public health risk.
Officials emphasised that after the lab reports return, further action including fines or license suspension could follow depending on severity. The department has made clear that there will be zero tolerance for stores dealing in fake medicines or compromising on patient safety.
Our correspondent reports that the public response has been supportive. Residents have been raising concerns in recent weeks about substandard medicine quality, prompting the health department to act. Local pharmacy owners say they welcome inspections, but some hope for clarity about rules so smaller shops are not unfairly penalised.
Our correspondent adds that this action is part of a broader state policy to crack down on medical malpractice and counterfeit drug sales. With trust in health services under strain, officials believe strict enforcement is necessary to secure public confidence.
