The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has expanded the QR code-based drug traceability framework by bringing vaccines, antimicrobials, anti-cancer medicines, and narcotic and psychotropic drugs under Schedule H2 of the Drugs Rules, 1945.

Under the revised rules, manufacturers will be required to print or affix a QR code on the packaging of these medicines, enabling authentication and tracking across the supply chain. The QR code will contain key product details, including the product identification code, manufacturer information, batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates, and licence details.

The move aims to strengthen drug traceability, curb the circulation of counterfeit and substandard medicines, improve regulatory oversight, and support efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and illegal drug distribution. The new rules will take effect from July 1, 2027 for vaccines, anti-cancer, and NDPS drugs, and from July 1, 2028 for antimicrobials.