Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission Launches 5th National Pharmacovigilance Week
The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has officially launched the 5th National Pharmacovigilance Week (NPW) at the Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre in New Delhi. Running from September 17 to 23, 2025, this year’s theme is “Your Safety, Just a Click Away: Report to PvPI.” The initiative aims to encourage healthcare professionals, regulators, researchers, and the general public to report adverse drug reactions (ADRs) using simplified digital platforms, enhancing patient safety across the nation.
Significance of Pharmacovigilance
During the inauguration, Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), emphasized the critical role of pharmacovigilance in protecting patient health. He noted that the establishment of National Pharmacovigilance Week has significantly transformed the landscape of pharmacovigilance in India. “With the number of reports, we rank among the top contributors globally in reporting adverse events,” Dr. Raghuvanshi stated, highlighting the importance of collective efforts in this domain. He pointed out that while healthcare professionals have been the primary sources of reports, true progress can only be achieved when patients actively participate in the reporting process.
Dr. Raghuvanshi also acknowledged the vast amount of data available for analysis but stressed the need for better utilization of this information to strengthen pharmacovigilance efforts. He called for a shift in the approach to pharmacovigilance, advocating for a culture of curiosity rather than apprehension within organizations. This change, he believes, is essential for achieving better outcomes in patient safety.
New Initiatives Launched
As part of the NPW celebrations, the IPC introduced several new initiatives aimed at raising public awareness about pharmacovigilance. Among these is a short film on the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) and a comic published in multiple vernacular languages, designed to engage a broader audience. Additionally, a new online reporting platform has been launched, which can be accessed easily through a QR code, making it more convenient for individuals to report adverse drug reactions.
These initiatives reflect the IPC’s commitment to enhancing public understanding of pharmacovigilance and encouraging active participation from all stakeholders. Dr. Raghuvanshi expressed optimism about the future of pharmacovigilance in India, stating that the program has now established a strong foundation with well-defined policies being developed and regulated.
Acknowledging Contributions in Pharmacovigilance
During the event, Dr. Raghuvanshi presented awards to recognize outstanding contributions to the field of pharmacovigilance. The prestigious PvPI – Patient Safety Excellence Award was awarded to the ADR Monitoring Centre at Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Cancer Centre in Varanasi for its exemplary work in preventing adverse drug reactions. Additionally, the PvPI – Patient Connect Award was given to Mr. Delli Kumar T. from Vikruthamala, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh, for his dedication and active involvement in ADR reporting. These awards underscore the vital role of patient participation in enhancing pharmacovigilance efforts.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Dr. V. Kalaiselvan, Secretary-cum-Scientific Director of IPC, Prof. Y. K. Gupta, National Scientific Advisor of the PvPI, and Dr. Nilima Kshirsagar, Former National Chair of ICMR, among others. Their presence highlighted the collaborative effort required to advance pharmacovigilance in India.
Looking Ahead
The launch of the 5th National Pharmacovigilance Week marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards improved patient safety. With a focus on digital reporting and public engagement, the IPC aims to foster a culture of safety and awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public alike. As the week progresses, the IPC hopes to see increased participation in reporting adverse drug reactions, ultimately contributing to a safer healthcare environment for all. The initiatives introduced during this week are expected to pave the way for a more informed and proactive approach to pharmacovigilance in the country.
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