Revised prices of anti-cancer formulations take effect today:Where can consumers complain if shopkeepers ask them to pay at old MRP?

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, has capped trade margins on the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of 137 anti-cancer drugs, based on the recommendations of an Expert Committee constituted by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health Family Welfare, on 17th October, 2026. The revised MRPs of these medicines come into effect from Monday, 9 November, 2026. Pharma cos already rolled out new prices of 121 anti-cancer drugs As of 8 November, 2026, 85 pharmaceutical companies have reported revised MRPs for 1,364 anti-cancer formulations, covering 121 drugs. One drug becomes 96% cheaper With 679 brands reporting price reductions of more than 50%. The highest reported reduction in prices is 96.45%. As a result of the price reductions, the estimated annual savings to consumers is expected to be ₹3,540.38 crore. Where to check new prices? Consumers can check the revised MRP printed on the medicine pack and verify medicine prices through the ‘Pharma Sahi Daam’ mobile app or NPPA website (nppa.gov.in). No chemist or hospital pharmacy can charge more than the revised MRP. Where can you complain if shopkeeper overcharges? In case of overcharging or any other pricing-related complaint, consumers can register their grievance through the Pharma Jan Samadhan portal or contact the NPPA helpline at 1800-111-255. How are medicine prices determined? 1. The Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) regulates the prices of essential medicines. Under the 2013 DPCO, the government fixes the ceiling prices of medicines included in the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM). 2. The ceiling prices of essential medicines are determined based on the prices of medicines available in the market. Selling a medicine above the prescribed ceiling price is illegal. 3. The Health Ministry prepares the list of essential medicines, taking into account their safety, effectiveness and prices. The list considers common diseases in the country and people’s healthcare needs. 4. The list is reviewed periodically, and new medicines are added as required. The government has less direct control over the prices of medicines that are not included in this list.