The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority has capped trade margins on 137 anti-cancer drugs based on the recommendations of an expert committee. The revised prices are expected to save consumers ₹3,502.31 crore.
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has capped trade margins on 137 anti-cancer drugs based on the recommendations of an Expert Committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in October 2026. The revised prices of these drugs will come into effect from November 9, 2026. As on date, 76 pharmaceutical companies have reported revised MRP for 1225 anti-cancer formulations, covering 121 drugs. Reduction in the MRP have been reported in 1031 formulations of anti-cancer medicines, with 600 brands reporting above 50% reduction and the highest reduction being 96.45%.
The estimated annual savings to consumers would be ₹3,502.31 crore. The notification SO 5690 (E) dated October 2026 will remain in force until further orders. However, manufacturers can avail annual price increase in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph 20(1) of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013, subject to continued compliance with the maximum permissible trade margin of 30%.
Every retailer, dealer, hospital and institution is required to prominently display Revised MRP list of anti-cancer medicines on their websites and in their premises. Consumers can check the applicable prices through the Pharma Sahi Daam mobile application and report any non-compliance or violation of revised prices to the authority. Complaints can be submitted through email, helpline, or post.
Source:
Press Information Bureau
