New Delhi, Sept. 23 -- Six months after a government report showed an alarming shortage of drug inspectors in the country, the Union health ministry has appointed 49 candidates to the role.

Out of 419 sanctioned posts for drug inspectors under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, only 189 were filled as of February, according to a seniority list published by CDSCO in February. Even with the 49 new inspectors, 181 posts remain unfilled.

CDSCO's medical devices unit has another 85 sanctioned posts for drug inspectors, but 80% of those were vacant as of November.

Drug inspectors are authorized to inspect drug manufacturing units and sales outlets, take samples for analysis, and ensure compliance with quality and safety standar...