KATHMANDU: A stakeholder consultation on Nepal’s proposed Drugs and Medical Supplies Act, 2083 (2026/27) proceeded on Friday without the participation of the Ministry of Health and Food Safety’s top leadership, prompting criticism over the ministry’s commitment to pharmaceutical sector reforms.
The Department of Drug Administration organized the discussion on the draft legislation under the ministry’s directive. Although representatives from key stakeholder groups attended, neither the health minister nor the ministry’s senior administrative leadership was present.
With the ministry’s top officials absent, the event was presided over by a Senior Pharmacy Officer from the Quality Control and Regulation Division, who served as the chief guest.
Several participants expressed disappointment over the absence of the ministry’s leadership, saying it diminished the significance of the consultation. Some also questioned whether the ministry was giving sufficient priority to pharmaceutical regulation despite its importance to public health.
Acting Director General of the Department of Drug Administration Shivani Khadgi said the consultation had been completed successfully despite the absence of senior officials.
“The minister was expected to attend, and invitations were also sent to the secretary and additional secretary. They were unable to participate due to their official commitments. Nevertheless, we held comprehensive discussions with all relevant stakeholders and collected suggestions on provisions requiring revision. We will compile the recommendations and hold another meeting with the ministry before finalizing the draft,” Khadgi said.
Earlier, Senior Drug Administrator Kiran Sundar Bajracharya outlined the objectives of the consultation, noting that the department had previously held several rounds of discussions with stakeholders on revising the law. He said the draft would be refined while preserving the legislation’s core standards and regulatory framework.
Representing the Ministry of Health and Food Safety, Usha Tandukar said the government plans to amend 16 health-related laws, including the Drugs Act. She stressed that the revised legislation should prioritize quality, safety and efficacy in regulating medicines and health products.
Former department directors Radharaman Prasad and Gajendra Bahadur Bhuju also shared their views during the discussion. Dr. Gyampo Dorje, representing the World Health Organization (WHO) Nepal, which is providing technical support for drafting the legislation, also addressed the consultation.
