In order to protect the citizens from misleading advertisements and health risks, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India issued an advisory dated 12th July, 2017, to all the television channels for ensuring strict compliance of the provisions of the Drug and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, and the Drugs & Cosmetic Act, 1940. The advisory states that the aforesaid Acts and the rules thereunder should be adhered by the television channels while telecasting advertisements. As per the advisory, in relation to the Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani and Homeopathic (AYUSH) products/drugs, the television channels are advised to advertise only AYUSH products/drugs that have valid license issued by the Ministry of AYUSH or the State Drug Licensing Authorities. The Ministry of AYUSH is of the view that some channels carry advertisements with exaggerated or improper claims of AYUSH products/drugs which mislead consumers and pose potential health risks with self-medication.
This update is authored by Clasis Law, Clyde & Co's associated firm in India
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