The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has reported that 330 drug samples tested across India in September 2026 failed to meet specified quality standards and were classified as Not of Standard Quality (NSQ).

According to the regulator, 42 of these samples were identified by Central Drugs Laboratories, while the remaining 288 were flagged by State Drugs Testing Laboratories.

CDSCO clarified that an NSQ classification relates to the failure of a particular batch to meet 1 or more prescribed quality parameters. Such findings apply to the specific batch tested by the government laboratory and do not automatically indicate a quality concern with other batches or products available in the market.

During September, one drug sample from the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi was also identified as spurious. The medicine was allegedly manufactured by unauthorised manufacturers using a brand name belonging to another company. The regulator stated that the matter is under investigation and appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the applicable Act and Rules.

CDSCO conducts these quality surveillance activities in coordination with state drug regulators to identify substandard and spurious medicines and facilitate their removal from the market.

In comparison, the regulator had classified 220 drug samples as NSQ in August 2026. Of these, 191 were reported by State Drugs Testing Laboratories.