Telangana Takes a Leap Towards Ensuring Food and Drug Safety
In a significant move, the Telangana government has established the Telangana Standards Authority for Food and Essential Drugs (TG SAFE), marking a new era in the regulation of food and drugs in the state. This development comes on the heels of the government’s decision to merge the Food Safety and Drugs Control departments, paving the way for a unified approach to ensuring consumer safety.
A Unified Approach to Food and Drug Safety
The creation of TG SAFE is a crucial step towards consolidating the food safety and drug testing laboratories under a single laboratory division. This move aims to streamline the process of licensing, inspecting, sampling, and testing food, drugs, and cosmetics for consumers. The new authority will comprise dedicated wings for Drug Administration, Food Safety, Enforcement, Legal & Prosecution, Laboratory operations, and Administration.
Intelligence-Led Inspections to Curb Irregularities
To tackle adulteration and other irregularities, TG SAFE will implement intelligence-led and risk-based inspections. The Director General of Police (DGP) will allocate police personnel to assist with enforcement activities. This strategic approach will enable the authorities to identify potential risks and take proactive measures to prevent contamination and adulteration.
Focus on Public Health and Consumer Safety
The Telangana government is prioritizing public health and consumer safety through the establishment of TG SAFE. A state-level committee will be constituted to modernize the food and drug regulatory system. The committee will focus on testing, intelligence, data analysis, legal support, and laboratory infrastructure. By placing greater emphasis on these aspects, the government aims to create a robust framework for ensuring the safety of food and drugs in the state.
Initial Phase Operations in the ‘Cure’ Area
The government has chosen the ‘Cure’ area as the initial phase for the operations of TG SAFE. This area is home to a high concentration of food businesses and pharmaceutical establishments, making it an ideal location for the new authority to begin its operations.
Avinash Mohanty Appointed as TG SAFE Commissioner
The government has appointed Avinash Mohanty as the TG SAFE Commissioner, in addition to his role as the Director General (DG) of Drugs Control Administration. This appointment underscores the importance of the new authority and the need for a dedicated leader to oversee its operations.
Gazette Notification Issued
The Telangana government has issued a gazette notification appointing Avinash Mohanty as the TG SAFE Commissioner. This marks the beginning of a new era in the regulation of food and drugs in the state, and the government is confident that TG SAFE will play a crucial role in ensuring public health and consumer safety.
Orders to Come into Effect on August 15, 2026
The orders regarding TG SAFE will come into effect on August 15, 2026, as per the Department of Medical, Health, and Family Welfare’s G.O. Ms. No. 67. This development is expected to have a significant impact on the food and drug industry in Telangana, and the government is committed to ensuring that the new authority operates effectively to protect consumers.
In conclusion, the establishment of TG SAFE marks a significant milestone in the regulation of food and drugs in Telangana. With its focus on public health and consumer safety, the new authority is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of citizens in the state.