New Delhi, Nov. 10 -- In a major relief to patients, the government announced on Monday that the Maximum Retail Prices (MRP) of anti-cancer medicines were "reduced by up to 96.45%."

The revised Maximum Retail Prices (MRP) of more than 1,000 anti-cancer formulations came into effect on Monday, a move projected to save consumers an estimated Rs.3,540.38 crore annually, according to an official release.

The Department of Pharmaceuticals said the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) capped trade margins on the MRP of 137 anti-cancer drugs.

Out of the 137 identified anti-cancer drugs, 10-15 are yet to be launched in India. "However, Trade Margin Rationalisation (TMR) will be applicable on these drugs also as and when they are la...