APDCA Cracks Down on Medical Shops, Orders Revised GST Signboards

The Andhra Pradesh Drugs Control Administration (APDCA) has ordered all medical shops in the state to display revised GST signboards following updated norms issued this month.

On 23 September 2025, the APDCA directed enforcement officers to ensure compliance. Following this, the Visakhapatnam Drugs Control Administration worked with local Chemist and Druggist Associations through Drugs Inspectors to implement the directives.

A senior official said, “The associations have received the revised signboards from the All-India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) and are advising their member shops to display them prominently.”

Inspectors have been tasked with verifying compliance through routine and surprise checks. Awareness campaigns are also underway to educate chemists about the importance of displaying the boards.

On 1 October 2025, inspectors from Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts conducted surprise inspections of 32 shops across Maharani Peta, Madhurawada, MVP Colony, Arilova, Gajuwaka, Chinnagantyada, Kurmannapalem, Anakapalli, and Kasimkota. Twenty-five shops complied, while seven had not displayed the revised boards. Reports have been sent to the Director General for further action.

Assistant Director S. Vijaya Kumar personally inspected 11 shops in Pedda Waltair and Chinna Waltair. “We observed several shops not displaying the revised GST boards. Immediate action was taken, and monitoring will continue,” he said.

The APDCA urged chemists to sell medicines strictly under the revised GST provisions. Citizens are advised to demand proper bills and report non-compliance via the CRU helpline at +91 863 233 0909 or email dca-grams@ap.gov.in.