The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has allowed the import of drugs through the newly inaugurated Navi Mumbai Airport in Maharashtra, increasing the number of designated entry points for pharmaceutical consignments across India to 42 ports. The decision was taken through an amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, which adds Navi Mumbai Airport to the list of airports permitted to handle drug imports. According to officials, the move is aimed at strengthening the pharmaceutical supply chain, improving logistics infrastructure and making the import process more efficient for businesses involved in the sector. Amendment cleared after consultation with advisory board The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said the notification was issued after consultation with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. “The amendment is expected to facilitate smoother movement of pharmaceutical consignments, strengthen logistics infrastructure, and provide greater flexibility to importers by adding a new alternative for import of medicines into India,” the statement noted. Officials said the addition of Navi Mumbai Airport …