In a pioneering move towards efficient governance, Gujarat has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first state in the country to introduce online licenses for allopathic medicines through the newly launched FDCA-mDMLA mobile app.

Unveiled on Good Governance Day, December 25, 2023, by Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, this mobile application promises to streamline and expedite the licensing process for pharmaceuticals.

The FDCA-mDMLA app, a leap in m-governance, consolidates various online platforms into a single interface, providing stakeholders with real-time access to the status of their applications. This initiative extends its benefits to Ayurvedic medicine and cosmetic manufacturers and sellers, aligning with the state's commitment to e-governance.

Overseen by a senior FDA official of Assistant Commissioner rank, this mobile governance system marks a significant step in the direction of ease of doing business. According to Gujarat Food and Drug Control Administration (FDCA) Commissioner Dr HG Koshia, “The app encompasses 24 categories, facilitating online Extended Licensing Node (XLN), online drug manufacturing license application (DMLA), iDMLA, COSMLA, AYUMLA, and CERTIFICATE functions.”

Dr Koshia emphasised, "Around 6000 manufacturers and more than 52000 drug sellers in the state will benefit directly from this mobile app, providing anytime, anywhere access to their operations, services, and information."

This groundbreaking mobile app assures transparency and accountability in the licensing process. It allows users to obtain digitally signed licenses, certificates, and approvals through their mobile devices, providing real-time updates on the status of their applications. Furthermore, the app encompasses all services under the Right of Citizens to Public Service (RCPS) Act.

Gujarat FDCA's transition from e-governance to m-governance is expected to create a unified platform for all licensees, ensuring easy access to regulatory information, licensing rules, procedures, protocols, and processes. The move represents a departure from traditional offline operations, where applicants had to physically visit the office for application submissions and follow-ups.

The journey toward digitisation began in 2011 with the development of the Gujarat FDCA online platform DMLA software, streamlining the paperless delivery of services for granting product licenses. In 2007, Gujarat also pioneered the online XLN system for the online grant of retail/wholesale sales licenses. The Chief Minister’s earlier launch of the cosmetic manufacturing license portal in 2022 was another step towards transparency and efficiency in the licensing process.

“Gujarat's commitment to technological advancements in governance reaffirms its position as a leader in pioneering initiatives that prioritise transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity. The FDCA-mDMLA app sets the stage for a new era in regulatory processes, promising a seamless experience for all stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry,” Dr Koshia concluded.

 Bhagwati Prasad