New Delhi, Nov. 8 -- The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has instructed state and Union Territory drug controllers to begin immediate inspections of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities to assess compliance with the revised Schedule M standards for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

In a directive to state authorities, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) said that inspections and enforcement action must commence without delay for units that have not sought extensions.

"Immediate inspection and action shall be initiated right now for those units who have not applied for the extension, as the revised Schedule M is already applicable for such units," the order stated.

It further warned, "In case any manufa...