India opens DCGI chief search as expanded eligibility draws regulator backlash

India has invited applications for the next Drugs Controller General of India, widening eligibility to include non-pharmacy engineering disciplines. Drug-control officers say the move could dilute technical oversight at a time when medicine quality and confidence in Indian-made drugs remain under scrutiny.

— Filed Mon, 3 Aug, 2026, 16:45 IST · Source Mint · Industry · Updated

India has opened applications for a new DCGI chief after expanding eligibility to non-pharmacy engineering fields. The change faces opposition from drug-control officers, who warn it could weaken regulatory expertise, medicine quality oversight and confidence in India’s pharmaceutical supply chain.

Why this matters

CDSCO’s leadership search follows its 18-month target for an end-to-end digital drug regulation platform and action against 90% of high-risk facilities inspected since late 2022, linking staffing choices to compliance and modernization.

Leadership is steady at 993 signals over the past 90 days.