New Delhi, July 6 -- The Indian government has asked domestic drug manufacturers to identify exporters that can supply morphine raw material to sanctions-hit Russia after Moscow sought emergency supplies of the painkiller for battlefield and field-level medical care.

According to two people familiar with the matter and a government communication reviewed by Mint, the department of pharmaceuticals has written to drug manufacturers, including through the Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association (IDMA), seeking details of companies capable of supplying morphine hydrochloride to Russia, which has been engaged in a prolonged war with Ukraine.

The development highlights India's unique position in the global pharma supply chain as it is the worl...