Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): In a significant move, registered Vaidyas and Hakims under the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) have been exempted from adhering to the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) guidelines that govern the production of Ayurvedic drugs.

The exemption applies to practitioners who prescribe medicines to patients but do not sell them in the market.

A gazette notification regarding this decision was issued in February 2025.

The GMP regulations, which are critical for maintaining the quality and safety of medicines, include creating and enforcing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), validating their effectiveness and ensuring that employees are trained adequately.

These guidelines are designed to ensure that Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani medicines are produced in a hygienic environment with authentic raw materials, free from contamination and meet prescribed quality standards.

Dr. Rakesh Pandey, National Spokesman for the Ayush Association, welcomed the exemption, stating, “There are around 1.5 lakh Vaidyas across various states like Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, New Delhi, Gujarat and Uttarakhand who prepare medicines for their patients. This exemption will ease their burden and allow them to continue serving their patients effectively.”