India Launches Key Reforms under Jan Vishwas Act
The Government of India has enacted significant reforms through the Jan Vishwas Act, 2026, aimed at modernizing the regulatory landscape under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. These reforms focus on building trust in governance, reducing compliance burdens for businesses, and ensuring that regulatory enforcement is fair without compromising public health standards.
The recent amendments are designed to decriminalise minor and technical violations, moving away from criminal proceedings in favor of administrative penalties. This shift is intended to enhance the ease of doing business while maintaining strict regulations where public health and consumer safety are at risk.
Key Changes in the Drugs and Cosmetics Act
One of the notable adjustments includes the removal of Section 29 from the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, which previously imposed a hefty penalty of up to ₹1 lakh for using a Government Analyst’s report in advertising drugs or cosmetics. Furthermore, violations relating to the manufacturing and sale of low-risk cosmetics are now subject to administrative penalties for non-compliance with minor quality standards or labelling errors. However, serious offences involving counterfeit or adulterated cosmetics will continue to face stringent penalties, ensuring consumer safety is prioritized.
The amendments have converted violations under Section 28A, which relate to procedural and compliance issues, into administrative penalties, streamlining compliance for businesses. The introduction of provisions for the appointment of Adjudicating Authorities and an Appeal Mechanism is set to improve the timely and transparent handling of cases resulting from contraventions.
Streamlining Food Safety Regulations
Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, a significant reform has replaced court-imposed fines for filing false complaints against Food Safety Officers with an administrative penalty framework. Moreover, the punishment for interfering with seized items has been adjusted, with imprisonment terms cut from six months to three months. The previous provision for obstructing food safety officers has also been eliminated, as it overlaps with existing laws governed by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
The reforms introduced by the Jan Vishwas Act, 2026, highlight the Government’s commitment to creating a transparent and trust-based regulatory system. By distinguishing between minor procedural non-compliances and serious public health violations, the amendments aim to ensure balanced enforcement while preserving the integrity of India’s regulations concerning food and drugs.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare reinforces its commitment to public health while fostering a regulatory environment that minimizes unnecessary compliance burdens, ultimately enhancing efficiency for businesses in the sector.
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