The center proposes 10 new import gates for medicines, medical devices

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The Union Health Ministry has proposed to expand the network of authorized points of entry for import of drugs, medical devices and cosmetics into India by adding 10 Inland Container Depots (ICDs), a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and an international airport to the existing list of notified points.

The proposed amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945 is aimed at facilitating import operations, reducing inland transport distances and improving the movement of medical products across the country.

Other proposed locations include Sonipat, Piyala and Harsaru ICDs in Haryana; ICD Dadri in Uttar Pradesh; ICD Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat; Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur ICDs in Hyderabad, Telangana; and ICD Whitefield in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The ministry has also proposed to include Bommasandra SEZ in Karnataka and Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh for importing drugs by air.

The proposed expansions will complement the existing network of authorized import gateways, which includes ICDs at Dhannad and Tihi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, in addition to airports already notified for drug importation.

Rule 43A specifies ports, airports, railway stations, road crossings and other entry points through which drugs can be imported into India.

According to the ministry, the expansion of the network is expected to allow importers to handle shipments closer to their manufacturing plants, warehouses and distribution centers. This could reduce inland transport requirements, optimize logistics costs and minimize delays in the movement of imported shipments.

The move is also intended to improve operational comfort for importers and strengthen the supporting infrastructure for the supply of medicines, medical devices and cosmetics.

The Ministry requested objections and suggestions from interested parties to the draft amendment. Replies can be sent to the Deputy (Drugs Regulation), Ministry of Health and Welfare or by email to drugsdiv-mohfw@gov.in.

The amendment will be discussed after considering the objections and suggestions received, he notes the edition issued by the ministry.

Published – November 3, 2026 11:27 AM IST