The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised drug manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers and other applicants to apply directly through the government’s authorised online system for obtaining drug licences and warned them against unauthorised agents or intermediaries.

The department clarified that it has not appointed any agents, intermediaries or private organisations to process or facilitate drug licence applications. Applicants can submit applications and required documents directly through the authorised online portal without engaging third parties.

The advisory follows complaints of individuals allegedly misusing the names of Maharashtra FDA officials and employees and claiming to be authorised representatives of the department. Such individuals are reportedly demanding money from applicants on the pretext of securing or expediting drug licences.

Applicants have been urged to use only the official Maharashtra FDA portal, for licence applications, guidelines and related information. The department has also cautioned applicants against handing over money or documents to individuals offering to obtain licences through unofficial channels.

Tukaram Mundhe, Commissioner, Maharashtra FDA, said that no agent or intermediary is required to obtain food and drug licences and that the department has not appointed anyone for this purpose. He urged applicants to use the government’s online system themselves and immediately report any person or organisation demanding money in the name of FDA officials.

The Maharashtra FDA has further advised applicants to report such instances through the Commissionerate’s official email channel, with the department stating that the identity of complainants will be kept confidential.

The advisory is aimed at preventing fraudulent practices, improving transparency in the drug licensing process and ensuring that applicants deal directly with the prescribed government system.