India, Aug. 28 -- New Delhi

The Delhi drug control department is set to train pharmacists to curb over-the-counter sale of habit-forming drugs, and to strengthen measures to track and identify counterfeit medicines, officials aware of the development said, citing focus on pain relievers, such as codeine and tramadol, and anti-anxiety drugs, such as alprazolam, lorazepam, and clonazepam.

Chemist associations across Delhi have been asked to nominate representatives to take part in the programme, according to directives issued on Tuesday.

An official with the drug control department, who did not want to be named, said, "We are going to issue an order to all Delhi chemist associations inviting them to send their nominations. Following this...