India has launched the Online National Drug Licensing System (ONDLS) to track pharmaceutical solvents in real time after fatal child deaths linked to toxic cough syrups. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) will oversee this nationwide system to ensure only verified, pharma-grade ingredients are used in medicine manufacturing.

BulletsIn

• New ONDLS enables real-time tracking of high-risk pharmaceutical solvents across India.

• Initiative follows child deaths in Madhya Pradesh due to DEG-contaminated cough syrups.

• DEG, a toxic industrial solvent, caused several poisoning incidents in India since the 1970s.

• System ensures only verified, pharmaceutical-grade materials enter medicine production.

• Tracks solvents like glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, maltitol, ethyl alcohol, and starch hydrolysate.

• Mandates batch-wise digital entry by all licensed solvent manufacturers.

• Features include old-licence management and real-time quality documentation uploads.

• State drug controllers to conduct inspections, audits, and awareness drives.

• CDSCO circular issued October 22, 2025; backed by Union Health Secretary’s review.

• Reform aims to strengthen drug safety, accountability, and international trust in Indian pharmaceuticals