The Federation of Pharma Entrepreneurs (FOPE) is now concerned about the shortage of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) following the looming uncertainty with the ongoing war in West Asia.
In a communication to the secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, FOPE president Harish Jain has urged the Ministry to consider extending the suitable exemption or priority allocation of LPG to the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector too.
Now we wish to draw your attention to the fact that a large component of the pharmaceutical sector especially in the Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) utilise LPG and similar fuels for essential production processes including boilers, heating systems, drying operations and other manufacturing requirements, said Jain.
The pharma sector is the critical component of healthcare for supply of medicines. Any significant restriction or disruption in the availability of LPG to such facilities may affect the smooth functioning of manufacturing operations. This could potentially influence the supply of medicines required for hospitals, primary health care (PHCs) institutions and patients across the country. Also, pharmaceuticals (drugs and medicines) are classified under the category of Essential Medicines, pointed out the FOPE president.
In view of the unpredictable situation, which we are assessing in real-time, we request the Ministry to consider extending the suitable exemption or priority allocation of LPG to the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector too. This is by recognising the sector’s role in maintaining a stable supply of medicines. Such a measure would help ensure that industrial operations related to pharmaceutical production continue without interruption, said Jain.
We also request that appropriate guidance may be issued to the Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies like the Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) ad Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) to facilitate the continued supply of LPG to the pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities wherever it is required for the production of medicines.
The crisis in the Middle East has trapped LPG supplies in the Persian Gulf, further intensifying India’s energy crisis and raising the risk of higher inflation.
The war in West Asia has sparked an unexpected crisis for LPG and FOPE with its member organisations remain committed to supporting the government’s initiatives aimed at strengthening the healthcare system and ensuring access to highest quality of medicines. We are hoping for a consideration of this representation, said Jain as he concluded his communication to the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. |